Daily menu, September 13: baked nz mussels, duck delight, and fried milk treats
Sunday 13 September 2026 15:00 - Juliette Hess
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
- 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
- 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 HessI 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!
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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