Description
A simple and delicious dish that ensures tender and flavorful octopus for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 whole octopus (2.5 to 3 pounds), cleaned (beak and eyes removed)
- 8 cups of water
- 1 medium yellow onion, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or white wine
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 small celery stalk and a few parsley stems
Instructions
- Rinse the octopus under cold running water and pat dry.
- In a large pot, combine the water, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, vinegar (or wine), and salt.
- If using optional aromatics like celery and parsley, add them now.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer.
- Using tongs, lower the octopus into the pot. Simmer gently, covered loosely, for 45 to 60 minutes or until tender.
- Turn off the heat and let the octopus rest in the liquid for 10 minutes.
- Remove the octopus, slice, and serve with olive oil and lemon or your preferred dressing.
Notes
Always rinse the octopus well and ensure the pot is large enough. Do not rush the simmering process for the best results.