ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Mediterranean dish, you will need the following ingredients:
2.2 lbs (1 kg) fresh or thawed octopus
½ cup (100 ml) extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp sweet paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Octopus Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
Since octopus is a large ingredient with a unique texture, it is essential to prepare it properly before starting to cook. If using fresh octopus, start by cleaning the animal: remove the beak and entrails, then rinse it under cold water to remove any impurities. If using thawed octopus, make sure it is well drained before use.
See also Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
In a large saucepan, boil salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the octopus and let it cook for 30 to 40 minutes. This step is crucial for tenderizing the octopus, giving it a tender and pleasant texture. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the tentacles: they should be tender without resistance.
Once the octopus is cooked, drain it well and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle when cutting.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
While the octopus is cooling, prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade will give the octopus a rich and fragrant Mediterranean flavor. Mix all ingredients well to ensure the aromas blend perfectly.
Once the octopus has cooled, cut it into medium-sized pieces, making sure to maintain a beautiful presentation. Submerge the pieces in the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate for up to 2 hours. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the octopus and flavor it perfectly.
Cooking the Octopus
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The grill must be very hot before you begin cooking the octopus. A high temperature will allow for quick cooking and a slightly crispy texture on the outside, while maintaining the octopus's tenderness on the inside.
Step 4: Grilling the Octopus
Place the marinated octopus pieces on the hot grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each piece is golden brown and slightly crispy. Do not leave the octopus on the grill for too long, as it may become rubbery. The goal is to create a beautiful golden crust while maintaining the tenderness on the inside.
When the octopus is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter.
See also: Stringy and Creamy Aubrac Aligot
Serving the Dish
To finish the dish, garnish the grilled octopus with freshly chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges. The lemon will add a touch of freshness that perfectly complements the grilled flavor of the octopus. You can also serve this dish with a refreshing Greek salad or pita bread to complete the Mediterranean culinary experience.
Preparation Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Calories
Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Tips and Variations
Extra virgin olive oil: For a more intense flavor For a richer dish, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This will add extra depth of flavor to the marinade.
Fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano, feel free to use it instead of dried. Fresh herbs will add Greek-style grilled octopus is a perfect dish for seafood lovers. It perfectly embodies the simplicity and flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish, with its delicate flavor and captivating aromas, is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to discover a culinary tradition of Greece. The octopus, tender and slightly sweet, pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean herbs such as oregano and sweet paprika.
The History of Octopus in Mediterranean Cuisine
Greek cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and simplicity, and octopus is a key ingredient. Octopus is a common seafood in the Mediterranean, where it is often grilled or simmered in traditional dishes. The Greeks, known for their mastery of grilling and generous use of olive oil, have perfected the cooking of octopus over the centuries. Chicken, seafood, and fish occupy a prominent place in their meals.
In this recipe, the octopus is first boiled to tenderize it, then grilled to achieve a slightly crispy texture and a smoky flavor, ideal for an authentic culinary experience.
👇 To continue reading, scroll down and click Next 👇
ADVERTISEMENT
