10 options to prepare octopus | Recipes

Octopus, with its tender texture and unique flavor, is a highly appreciated ingredient in the cuisine of various cultures around the world. Its versatility in the kitchen makes it a delicious choice for a wide variety of dishes, from appetizers to gourmet main courses.

1. Galician-style octopus

Pulpo a la Gallega is an emblematic dish from the Galicia region, in northwest Spain. Its preparation is relatively simple, but the result is a dish full of flavor and tradition. This dish stands out for its tender octopus, accompanied by boiled potatoes, paprika and olive oil, which combine to create a truly memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

1 fresh octopus of approximately 2 kg
4 large potatoes
Coarse salt
sweet paprika
Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

Before starting cooking, make sure to clean the octopus well. Remove any sand or dirt from the skin and rinse it under cold water.
In a large pot filled with water, add a pinch of coarse salt and bring to a boil.
Hold the octopus by the head and immerse it in the boiling water for a few seconds, then remove it. Repeat this process three times, this will help the octopus become more tender.
Once the water is boiling again, submerge the octopus completely in the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 40-50 minutes, or until the octopus is tender. To check if it's done, prick the octopus with a fork; If it slides easily, it's ready.

Cooking the Potatoes:

While the octopus is cooking, peel the potatoes and cut them into slices about 1cm thick.
Place the potato slices in a large pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender but still firm. Do not overcook them to prevent them from falling apart.

Cutting and Presentation:

Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the water and let it rest for a few minutes.
Cut the octopus into slices approximately 1 cm thick, using a sharp knife.
Arrange the octopus slices on a large plate or serving tray, creating an even layer.
Distribute the cooked potato slices over the octopus.

Ending:

Sprinkle the octopus and potatoes generously with sweet paprika. This step not only adds flavor, but also provides a beautiful red color characteristic of this dish.
Drizzle everything with plenty of extra virgin olive oil, which will enhance the flavors and add a silky texture.
Optionally, you can decorate with some fresh parsley leaves for a touch of freshness.

Pulpo a la Gallega is traditionally served hot, so serve it immediately to enjoy it at its best.
Accompany this delicious dish with a good crusty bread, which will help you enjoy the juices and oils of the octopus and potatoes.

And there you have it! A delicious and authentic Galician Octopus recipe, perfect to share with friends and family on any special occasion or simply to enjoy the rich culinary tradition of Galicia. Enjoy!

2. Octopus Ceviche

Octopus ceviche is a refreshing and delicious option to enjoy in warm weather. This recipe highlights the unique flavor of octopus with a citrus and spicy touch. Here is a shortened version of the recipe:

Ingredients:

Cooked octopus, cut into small pieces
Lemon juice
Red onion, finely chopped
Tomato, diced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Hot pepper, to taste
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked octopus with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Make sure the octopus is completely covered with the lemon juice to marinate it properly.

Add the chopped red onion, tomato, fresh cilantro and hot pepper to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients well to make sure they are evenly distributed.

Season the ceviche with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your personal preferences.

Let the ceviche sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and develop.

Serve the octopus ceviche in individual bowls or in glasses, accompanied by lemon slices and fresh cilantro leaves to decorate.

3. Grilled Octopus

Grilled Octopus is a delicious way to highlight the natural flavor and tender texture of octopus, while adding an irresistible smoky touch. Here is a shortened version of the recipe:

Ingredients:

Cooked octopus, cleaned and cut into large pieces
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon, cut into wedges (to serve)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, to decorate)

Instructions:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate with a little olive oil to prevent the octopus from sticking.

Brush the octopus pieces with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. This will help enhance the flavor and prevent the octopus from drying out during cooking.

Place the octopus pieces directly on the hot grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and caramelized.

Once the octopus is cooked and has grill marks, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving plate.

Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the freshly cooked octopus and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness.

Serve the Grilled Octopus hot, accompanied by additional lemon wedges to squeeze over the octopus before eating.

4. Octopus with Garlic

Octopus with garlic is a classic preparation of Spanish cuisine. The octopus is sautéed with garlic in olive oil until tender, then sprinkled with paprika and fresh chopped parsley. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or as part of a main meal accompanied by rice or steamed potatoes.

5. Octopus Salad

A fresh octopus salad is an excellent option for a light and nutritious meal. Cooked octopus is combined with cucumber, tomato, red onion and olives, all dressed with olive oil, lemon juice and fresh herbs. This salad is refreshing and satisfying, perfect to enjoy on sunny days.

6. Octopus with Vinaigrette

Octopus with vinaigrette is a simple but delicious preparation that highlights the natural flavor of the octopus. The cooked octopus is cut into small pieces and mixed with a vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, mustard and fresh herbs. It can be served as an appetizer or as part of a tapas board.

7. Baked Octopus with Potatoes

This recipe combines tender octopus with oven-roasted potatoes, creating a comforting dish full of flavor. The octopus is first simmered in a mixture of white wine, fish stock and aromatic herbs, then placed on sliced potatoes and baked until golden and crispy.

8. Octopus Tacos

Octopus tacos are a creative and tasty way to enjoy this seafood. The octopus is cut into small pieces and sautéed with onion and peppers, then served on warm corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and hot sauce. It is a perfect option for an informal dinner with friends or family.

9. Stuffed Octopus

Stuffed octopus is an elegant preparation that will impress your guests on any special occasion. The body of the octopus is stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, fresh herbs and olives, then baked until golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It can be served with a homemade tomato sauce or a roasted red pepper sauce.

10. Octopus Pizza

Octopus pizza is a creative and delicious option for pizza and seafood lovers. A traditional pizza base is prepared, topped with slices of cooked octopus, tomato, mozzarella and olives, then baked until golden and crispy. It can be finished with a touch of olive oil and smoked paprika to highlight the flavors.

With these ten delicious preparations, you can enjoy all the flavor and texture that octopus has to offer.