Whole Octopus

Ingredients

• 2 lb Octopus (Whole, cleaned; about 1 kg)
• 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (For rubbing the octopus)
• 6 tbsp Olive Oil (4 tbsp for simmering, 2 tbsp for frying; extra‑virgin recommended)
• 4 cup Water (Enough to cover the octopus in the pot)
• 2 tbsp Butter (For the glossy sauce; unsalted preferred)
• 1 clove Garlic (Minced, added to the sauce)
• 1 tsp Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed, adds brightness to the sauce)

Instructions

1. Clean the Octopus

   Remove the beak, cut off the head, and rinse the octopus under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.

   Time: PT5M

2. Salt Rub

   Place the octopus in a large bowl, sprinkle 1 tbsp kosher salt, and massage the flesh to distribute evenly.

   Time: PT5M

3. Prepare Simmering Liquid

   In a large pot, add 4 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of salt, and 4 cups water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium‑low heat.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: low simmer

4. Simmer the Octopus

   Submerge the octopus fully in the pot. Cover and let it cook for 1 hour 30 minutes, checking occasionally that the liquid stays just below a boil.

   Time: PT1H30M

   Temperature: low simmer

5. Check Tenderness & Portion

   Remove the octopus with tongs. It should be very tender—pierce with a skewer or the tip of a small finger; it should go in with little resistance. Cut the tentacles into bite‑size pieces.

   Time: PT5M

6. Fry for Crust

   Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil, and when the oil shimmers, add the octopus pieces in a single layer. Fry for about 2‑3 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: medium‑high heat

7. Glaze with Glossy Sauce

   In a small saucepan, melt butter, add minced garlic, and stir for 30 seconds. Finish with lemon juice. Brush the hot octopus pieces generously with the sauce.

   Time: PT2M

8. Serve

   Arrange the glazed octopus on a serving platter, garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

635

Protein

136 g

Carbohydrates

2 g

Fat

14 g

Fiber

0 g