Mussel Stew with Bacon, Cider, and Cream

Imagine rich, briny mussels clattering around in a smoky, aromatic broth of hard cider, shallots, bacon, and cream that’s ready in 20 minutes. What’s not to love? This recipe is so simple that it pays to be picky when shopping for the ingredients. Don’t buy mussels if they look dry or if lots of them are gasping with open shells; they should look moist, the shells should have no cracks, and they should be mostly closed. Also, buy the best bacon you can and choose a cider you would be happy