• Using a butter knife, pry mussels from shells. Discard shells. Wash mussel meat and drain well.
• In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
• Dredge mussels in the flour mixture to fully coat.
• In a pan over medium heat, heat about 2-inch deep of oil to 350 F.
• Add mussels, shaking off excess flour, and deep-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes or until mussels are cooked through and are golden and crisp.
• Remove from heat and drain in a colander set over a bowl. Serve hot with spicy vinegar dip.

For Spicy Vinegar Dip

• In a bowl, combine vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, chili and salt to taste.