Cook for a Belgian: Moules Frites (Mussels and fries) - Simple Indeed

Ingredients

• 4 pounds mussels, scrubbed well and beards removed
• 4 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 onion, minced
• 3 celery stalks, minced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 5 springs of fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• fresh ground black pepper to taste.
• 4 big russet potatoes, cut into desired fries size.
• 2 quarts peanut oil or canola oil for frying