Do you remember when conveyor belt sushi was a thing back in the early 2000s? There was a restaurant called Sushi Land, and my oldest sister took my sibling and me there. At the time, I could not eat raw fish to save my life, so I only ate California rolls and Dynamite mussels; they served two mussels on the plate and were probably only $2 a plate. I had eaten 4 or 5 plates before my sister started scolding me for eating the same thing and not trying anything else! I probably could’ve eaten twice that amount had my sister let me, and I still think about those mussels today. My recipe is an homage to that memory, and it makes for the perfect little appetizer if you’re willing to share. The mussels’ briney and oceanic flavor profile pairs perfectly with the creamy, spicy mayo, and then it’s air-fried to golden perfection!
What are Dynamite Mussels?
Dynamite Mussels is a fusion dish that marries the briny goodness of mussels with the spicy, creamy richness of a dynamite sauce. This sauce, often associated with sushi and Japanese cuisine, typically combines mayonnaise, sriracha, and other flavorful ingredients to create a creamy sauce. When slathered over fresh, succulent mussels and broiled to perfection, the result is a dish that is as visually striking as it is delicious.
The Origins of Dynamite Sauce
The term “dynamite” in culinary contexts usually refers to a dish that packs a punch thanks to its bold and spicy flavors. Dynamite sauce itself has its roots in Japanese-American cuisine and is often used as a topping for sushi rolls, baked seafood, or even vegetables. The combination of creamy mayo and spicy sriracha, sometimes with the addition of fish roe or other seasonings, creates a sauce that is both rich and fiery, enhancing the natural sweetness of seafood.
If you want to find another recipe that goes well with dynamite sauce, check out my easy two-ingredient shrimp egg roll!
Cooking Options:
Air-fryer: Preheat your air-fryer to 350F, then air-fry for 6-7 minutes until the spicy mayo is caramelized and bubbling.
Oven: Preheat oven to 400F, line mussels on a baking tray, and bake for 8-10 minutes. Broil on high for 1 minute to brown.
Dynamite Mussels
2-3
servings10
minutes10
minutesIngredients
12 12 Mussels
- Sauce:
1/2 cup 1/2 Kewpie Mayo
1 1/2 tbsp 1 1/2 Sriracha
1 tsp 1 Soy Sauce
1 tsp 1 Garlic Powder
1 1 Green Onion
1 tbsp 1 Masago
- Garnishes:
Green Onion
Masago
Directions
- Prep mussels by washing and removing any beards that are attached to the shell or mussel. Then, using a small knife, cut the mussel and adductor away from the shell. Put the mussel back on its shell and pat mussel dry with a paper towel, then set aside
- Combine kewpie mayo, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, chopped green onion (white only), and masago in a small mixing bowl or container. Then spoon sauce over mussels evenly
- Air-fry or bake mussels until golden and the sauce is caramelized. In the air-fryer at 350 for 6-7 minutes or in the oven at 400 for 8-10 minutes
- Garnish dynamite mussels with masago and green onions (greens), and enjoy!
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