Daily menu, September 13: baked nz mussels, duck delight, and fried milk treats

Sunday 13 September 2026 15:00 - Juliette Hess
Daily menu, September 13: baked nz mussels, duck delight, and fried milk treats
Welcome to our daily menu for September 13th, where we bring you a delightful culinary journey that starts with a savory starter, moves to a hearty main dish, and concludes with a sweet dessert. First up, we have baked nz mussels with garlic, cheese, and dills, a dish that combines the briny flavor of fresh mussels with a rich, cheesy topping. This is followed by the show-stopping duck on every plate, a robust main course that features tender duck breasts paired with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce. Finally, we indulge in leche frita, a traditional Spanish dessert that offers a unique twist on custard, fried to perfection. Each recipe is designed to complement the others, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that will leave your guests raving. Let's dive into the details of each dish!

Baked nz mussels with garlic, cheese & dills

Start your meal with these delectable baked nz mussels, topped with a mixture of garlic, mozzarella cheese, and fresh dills. The preparation is simple yet rewarding: just mix the ingredients and bake until golden. The mussels are cleaned and drained, ensuring they are ready to soak up all the flavors. This dish not only offers a delightful taste but also a beautiful presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
Baked nz mussels with garlic ,cheese & dillsRecipe Baked nz mussels with garlic, cheese & dills

Preheat oven to 200C. Mix ingredients A together in a bowl and leave aside.

A duck on every plate

For the main course, savor the rich flavors of duck on every plate. This dish features succulent duck breasts cooked to perfection, complemented by a vibrant sauce made from Bing cherries and a hint of cider vinegar. The addition of sweet potatoes adds a comforting touch, making this dish a hearty and satisfying centerpiece for your meal. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a memorable dining experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
A duck on every plateRecipe A duck on every plate

Heat oil in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and shallot, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 7 minutes.

Leche frita, or fried milk

Conclude your meal with the delightful leche frita, a Spanish dessert that is both unique and delicious. Made from a creamy custard, this dish is cut into cubes, coated in batter, and fried until golden brown. The cinnamon and lemon peel infuse the custard with aromatic flavors, making each bite a treat. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or alongside fresh fruit for an added touch. This dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Leche frita, or fried milk - video recipe !Recipe Leche frita, or fried milk - video recipe !

Those little Spanish treats are just amazing ! Savory, easy to bake, this new way to have custard will enchant you !

Frequently asked questions

What is leche frita and how is it made?
Leche frita, or fried milk, is a traditional Spanish dessert made from a creamy custard that is cut into cubes, coated in batter, and fried until golden brown. The process involves boiling milk with lemon peel and cinnamon, mixing it with egg yolks and cornflour, and then frying the resulting cubes.

Can I use alternative milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use alternative milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Make sure to choose a variety that is unsweetened for the best results.

How can I make leche frita gluten-free?
To make leche frita gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the batter. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with leche frita?
Leche frita can be served with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit for added flavor and texture. It pairs well with a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon as well.

How long can I store leftover leche frita?
Leftover leche frita can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in a pan or microwave, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Shopping list for today's menu

Baked nz mussels with garlic, cheese & dills
  • 14 pieces of NZ mussels - cleaned and drained dry
  • sea salt to taste
  • cayenne pepper
  • 1 clove of garlic - chopped fine
  • 1 tablespoon of Italian mixed herbs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • grated mozzarella cheese
  • some chopped dills
A duck on every plate
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Scant 1/4 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup dry red wine
  • 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 cups canned Bing cherries
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon or chives
  • 4 boneless duck breasts
  • 6 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons coarse salt
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon light-brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
Leche frita, or fried milk
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 organic lemon peel
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup cornflour
  • flour
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • sugar
  • powdered cinnamon
Juliette HessJuliette Hess
I have been creating culinary content for Petitchef since 2017.
I love travelling and discovering new dishes, trying out new food trends and exploring new restaurants.
I’m a huge fan of pasta and noodles in all their forms ❤ from udon noodles to tagliatelle, I love cooking them and even making them from scratch!
I’m currently preparing, filming and photographing your next recipe, and I hope you’ll enjoy it!

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