The New "Muscles from Brussels"

Jean Claude van Damme ("JCVD") shot to Hollywood fame during the '90s and appeared as the protagonist in such hits as "Bloodsport", "Timecop", and my favorite, "Universal Solder", though it escapes me now if he was the perfect machine built to destroy mankind or if he saved all civilization from some misguided terrorist plot.

Due to his martial arts skills, muscular build, and Belgian heritage, the nickname "Muscles from Brussels" was coined - a perfect marketing slogan. In recent years though, his career and personal life have been in a free fall (including stints sleeping on the streets of LA), so now it's time to anoint a new hero to assume that title.

Watch the "Eating Mussels the Belgian Way" video

On a related note, mussels are considered Belgian's national dish, are usually served in big pots, and come in different flavors. They can be cooked in natural herbs, in white beer (usually Hoegaarden), provencale (tomatoes, onions), mariniere (white wine), or Thailandese/l'indienne (in curry). As with every dish, a side of Belgian "don't-call-them-French" fries serves as an accompaniment.

On my trip, I had mussels twice with my friend Luc, and after seeing him frown and shake his head at my ineptitude, Luc offered to demonstrate the "proper" Belgian technique for eating them. Even with no prior acting experience, he didn't appear nervous and performed his role confidently, needing only two takes. Take that, JCVD! A bright career is in store in La-la-land, I'm confident.

Although not keen on bulking up his physique like JCVD, Luc keeps fit by swimming, biking and running. Perfect profile to assume the mantle of the "NEW Muscles from Brussels"! Ok, if you think I'm delusional (or had too much Belgian beer) and it's a bit of a stretch, just watch the video right here ;-D

For more Belgium blog posts, click here.