There are a few rules for cooking with mussels. First, throw away any mussels that are already opened when you purchase them. Second, use a paring knife to remove the fibrous strings on the outside of the mussels—called the “beard”—as they are tough. Third, discard any mussels that haven’t opened during cooking. Last, always serve mussels with a crusty bread, coconut rice, or another starch to mop up all the delicious sauce. Mussels cook up quickly, making them ideal for a weeknight meal or a dinner party when you want to spend time with your guests instead of in the kitchen.