Octopus: How to Cook it From Cleaning to Serving, A Complete Guide

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated August 4, 2022

An octopus ( or ; plural: octopuses, octopi, or octopodes; see below) is a cephalopod mollusc of the order Octopoda. It has two eyes and four pairs of arms and, like other cephalopods, it is bilaterally symmetric. An octopus has a hard beak, with its mouth at the center point of the arms.

Octopus is a great ingredient to cook with, but it can be a little intimidating if you’re not familiar with it.

The best way to cook octopus is to boil it. The cooking time depends on the size of the octopus, but it’s usually around 45 minutes. You can use the octopus whole or cut it into bite-sized pieces.

In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know to cook with octopus and make it delicious.

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Octopus: The Seafood You Need to Try Grilling

Octopus is a type of seafood that is sold fresh or frozen. It may seem intimidating to cook, but it’s actually quite easy and a great way to impress your guests. Octopus is a good source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy option for those who love seafood. It has a mild flavor that is deliciously tender when cooked properly.

How to Prepare Octopus for Grilling

Preparing octopus for grilling means cleaning it properly. Here’s how to do it:

• Remove the head and beak from the tentacles.
• Remove the skin by rubbing it with salt and rinsing it off.
• Cut the tentacles into medium-sized pieces.
• Boil the octopus for 30-45 minutes until it’s tender.
• Let it rest in the fridge overnight to make it even more tender.

How to Grill Octopus

Grilling octopus is a great way to enjoy this seafood. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat up the grill to medium-high heat.
• Season the octopus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Skewer the tentacles and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until charred.
• Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil before serving.

How to Make Octopus Pesto Skewers

If you’re curious about trying octopus, this recipe is a great way to start:

• Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Skewer the octopus with shrimp and cherry tomatoes.
• Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until charred.
• Top with pesto and a sprinkling of lemon juice before serving.

Octopus Taste: Exploring the Flavor Profile of this Versatile Seafood

Octopus has a unique taste that is difficult to describe. The flavor profile of octopus depends on various factors, including the preparation method, the country of origin, and the type of octopus. Some people describe the taste of octopus as similar to other seafood, while others find it to be more meaty and slightly tough.

The Texture of Octopus Meat

Octopus meat is firm and has a slightly chewy texture. When cooked properly, it can be pretty tender and smooth. However, if not cooked correctly, it can be tough and rubbery. To prevent this, it’s essential to remove the beak and ink sac before cooking.

Popular Octopus Dishes

Octopus is a popular ingredient in many cuisines worldwide. Some of the most commonly utilized dishes include:

• Grilled octopus with potatoes and sauce
• Boiled octopus with chopped vegetables and stock
• Marinated octopus with a smoky flavor
• Thinly sliced octopus in Japanese cuisine

Best Ingredients to Add to Octopus

Octopus pairs well with various ingredients, including:

• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Paprika
• Soy sauce
• Ginger

Serving Octopus

Octopus is a versatile ingredient that can be served in various ways. Some people prefer it as the primary dish, while others like it as a side dish. Here are some ways to serve octopus:

• Grilled octopus with potatoes and sauce
• Boiled octopus with chopped vegetables and stock
• Marinated octopus with a smoky flavor
• Thinly sliced octopus in Japanese cuisine

Getting Your Octopus Ready: A Guide to Cleaning Your Seafood

When it comes to cooking with octopus, starting with fresh seafood is key. Look for an octopus that has clear eyes, a firm body, and a fresh smell. If you’re unsure about where to shop for octopus, ask your local fishmonger for recommendations.

Cleaning Your Octopus

Cleaning an octopus can be a bit difficult, but it’s certainly worth it to create a delicious and delicate dish. Follow these steps to clean your octopus:

1. Start by rinsing the octopus under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut off the head and discard it.
3. Remove the beak from the center of the tentacles by cutting around it and pulling it out.
4. Remove the ink sac and discard it.
5. Cut off the eyes and discard them.
6. Rinse the octopus again under cold water.

Preparing the Octopus

Once your octopus is clean, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here’s how:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add a bay leaf and a small piece of black pepper to the water.
3. Add the octopus to the pot and cover it with water.
4. Bring the water back to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Continue to simmer the octopus until it is tender. The cooking time will depend on the size of the octopus, but it usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
6. Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool.
7. Cut the octopus into small pieces.

Grilling Octopus: A Flavorful and Tender Greek Appetizer

The key to making this grilled octopus recipe flavorful is the marinade. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and set aside.

Time to Cook and Prep

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Boiling Octopus: The Key to Tenderness

Step-by-Step Guide to Boiling Octopus

Boiling octopus is the best way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clean the octopus by removing the eyes, horned head, and leftover sand from the tentacles.

2. Fill a large saucepan with cold water and add a little onion, celery, and spring seasonings for a flavored broth.

3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

4. Once the water is boiling, add the octopus to the pot and let it come back to a boil.

5. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the octopus cook for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the octopus.

6. Use a slotted spoon to remove any foam that forms on the surface of the water.

7. To test for tenderness, insert a knife into the middle of a tentacle. If it meets little resistance, the octopus is done.

8. Remove the octopus from the pot and let it cool in the broth for 10-15 minutes. This will help the meat to absorb the flavors of the seasonings.

9. Once the octopus has cooled, remove it from the broth and use a knife to remove the skin and suction cups.

Tip for Removing Tough Fibers

Octopus can have tough fibers that are difficult to chew. To eliminate these, try the following tip:

1. While the octopus is still warm, use a pair of kitchen scissors to cut the tentacles into bite-sized pieces.

2. Use your fingers to remove any tough fibers that you can see.

3. If there are still tough fibers, use a sharp knife to make a small incision in the center of the tentacle and gently pull the fibers out.

Refined Taste: Adding Sauces and Seasonings

Boiled octopus is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by adding sauces and seasonings. Here are some ideas:

1. Serve the octopus with a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing.

2. Make a sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice.

3. Add some heat with a spicy chili sauce.

4. For an elegant touch, drizzle the octopus with a balsamic reduction.

Get Creative: How to Serve Octopus

One of the best ways to serve octopus is in a salad. Grilling the octopus adds a nice smoky flavor and a pleasing texture to the dish. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

• Grill the octopus until it’s slightly charred and cooked through.
• Cut it into bite-sized pieces and toss with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite spices.
• Serve over a bed of greens and beans, and top with a colorful mix of diced roma tomatoes and golden mashed potatoes.

Octopus Bruschetta

Another popular way to serve octopus is on top of a classic French baguette. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

• Cube the octopus and toss with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite spices.
• Toast slices of bread and spread with buttery mashed potatoes.
• Top with the octopus mixture and a pop of colorful diced roma tomatoes.

Explore New Flavors

Octopus is a highly versatile meat that can work with a variety of ingredients and methods. Here are some other ideas to widen your palate:

• Add octopus to a seafood paella for a nice texture and flavor.
• Serve it with a side of spicy aioli for a pleasing kick.
• Mix it with colorful spices and herbs to create a nice tapas dish.
• Try it in a classic Italian pasta dish with garlic and olive oil.

Size Matters

When serving octopus, it’s important to consider the size of the pieces. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• For appetizers, smaller pieces work best. Try serving it on skewers or in bite-sized portions.
• For main dishes, medium-sized pieces are good. They allow the flavors to come through and are easy to prepare.
• If you’re making a salad or pasta dish, cut the octopus into thin strips to create a nice texture.

Get Creative with Colors

Octopus is a nice option for adding some color to your plate. Here are some ideas to make it pop:

• Serve it with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, like red peppers and yellow squash.
• Mix it with a variety of greens and herbs to create a nice salad.
• Add it to a colorful potato salad for a nice texture and flavor.

Asian Octopus Recipes: A Flavorful Adventure

This boiled octopus recipe is a staple in many Asian cuisines. The hoisin sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. Here’s how to make it:

• Boil the cleaned octopus in a pot of water with 1 teaspoon of salt for about 30-40 minutes until it’s tender.
• In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of honey.
• Once the octopus is cooked, drain the water and pour the hoisin sauce mixture over the octopus.
• Serve with rice and a side of fermented tofu.

Mango and Octopus Stir Fry

This mango and octopus stir fry is a perfect dish for those who love a little sweetness in their food. The mango adds a fruity flavor that complements the savory taste of the octopus. Here’s how to make it:

• Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan and add sliced octopus. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly browned.
• Add sliced mango and stir fry for another 2-3 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger.
• Pour the sauce over the octopus and mango and stir fry for another minute.
• Serve with rice and a side of fried tofu.

Octopus and Tofu Stew

This octopus and tofu stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a cold day. The tofu adds a creamy texture that complements the chewy octopus. Here’s how to make it:

• Boil the cleaned octopus in a pot of water with 1 teaspoon of salt for about 30-40 minutes until it’s tender.
• In a separate pot, heat a tablespoon of oil and add diced tofu. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly browned.
• Add sliced octopus, 2 cups of water, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the pot with the tofu.
• Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
• Serve with rice and a side of fermented vegetables.

Octopus Dumplings

These octopus dumplings are a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion. The chewy octopus adds a unique flavor to the dumplings. Here’s how to make it:

• Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of water, and a pinch of salt in a bowl to make the dumpling dough.
• Roll out the dough and cut it into small circles.
• Add a small piece of boiled octopus to each circle and fold it into a dumpling shape.
• Boil the dumplings for about 5-7 minutes until they’re cooked through.
• Serve with a side of hoisin sauce.

Octopus and Mango Dessert

Yes, you read that right. Octopus can also be used in desserts! This octopus and mango dessert is a unique and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love to try new things. Here’s how to make it:

• Grill the cleaned octopus for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through.
• Slice the octopus into small pieces and mix it with diced mango.
• Serve with a side of coconut milk and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.

Octopus BBQ

In many Asian countries, street food is a staple in their culture. Octopus BBQ is a popular drinking food that’s perfect for a night out with friends. Here’s how to make it:

• Clean the octopus and grill it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through.
• Cut the octopus into small pieces and serve it with a side of hoisin sauce.
• This dish is perfect for sharing and pairs well with a cold beer or soju.

These Asian octopus recipes are not only delicious but also nutritious. Octopus is a great source of protein and is low in dairy, gluten, and nuts, making it a perfect ingredient for those with dietary restrictions. So go ahead and try these recipes and embark on a flavorful adventure!

Octopus: A Healthy Addition to Your Seafood Recipes

Octopus is a type of seafood that is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a low-calorie and low-carbohydrate meat that is high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those who are health-conscious. Octopus meat is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Preparation Method Can Affect Nutritional Content

The way you prepare octopus can affect its nutritional content. Grilled octopus is a popular method of cooking that can help to retain the meat’s nutritional value. Boiling octopus is another common method, but it may cause some of the nutrients to leach out into the water.

Octopus Can Be Prepared in a Variety of Styles

Octopus can be prepared in a variety of styles, and each style offers a unique taste and texture. Some common ways to prepare octopus include grilled, boiled, and chopped into small pieces. Octopus can also be served in a variety of dishes, including traditional rice dishes and mixed with other seafood.

Octopus Is a Staple in Many Countries

Octopus is a popular seafood in many countries, including Japan, Spain, and Greece. It is sold in various forms, including fresh, frozen, and canned. Octopus is also a staple in many traditional dishes, and chefs around the world are learning new ways to incorporate it into their recipes.

Adding Octopus to Your Diet Can Have Positive Health Benefits

Incorporating octopus into your diet can have many positive health benefits. Octopus is a natural source of essential nutrients that can help to improve your overall health. It is also considered to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to prevent certain diseases. Octopus is also a great source of protein, which can help to protect and improve your body’s muscle mass.

Conclusion

So there you have it- a guide to cooking with octopus. It’s a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways. 

I hope this guide has helped you to get started and you can now enjoy this delicious seafood.

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.