Beginner’s guide to Spanish Octopus
A magnificent start to any meal-Spanish octopus is not just a visual stunner but a delicate vehicle for all kinds of worldly flavors. The thing about octopus-if you ask any connoisseur-is it needs to be cooked or prepared correctly. Many times, I have bit into a rubbery or chewy piece. This is no fault of the poor octopus instead a mere mishap in the way it was prepared in the kitchen. Here is a bit of guidance for those beginners who are feeling adventurous and want to try something new!
Buying octopus
- Choose frozen or fresh octopus
- The freezing and thawing process tenderizes the octopus so in this case frozen is acceptable
- Keep in mind octopus cooks down quite a bit so the bigger the better
Preparing octopus
- Let the frozen octopus thaw overnight in the fridge
- Slice off the beak and the head if still attached (beak is located in the middle of the legs)
Cooking octopus
- Slow cook or braise the octopus for about 45 minutes
- Braising is vital to tenderizing the octopus
- Dip the tentacles in hot poaching broth a few times before submerging to get a cool curl up effect
- If the suckers come off on their own-Oh no, you cooked it too long
- Now, you can sear, grill, or pan roast the octopus
- Grilling and searing will lend for a charred outside while pan roasting allows the octopus to soak up the flavors of the sauce
Whether it is Indian aromatics, Italian sauces, or Peruvian flavors you crave, Spanish octopus is extremely versatile and blends well with whatever you are craving for tonight! Approachable and accessible – octopus can easily make it onto this week’s dinner plans.
On the Menu
There is no need to tackle this on your own, Catch 35-seafood and premium steaks in Naperville and Chicago offers Spanish Octopus as a starter and it is featured on the Naperville Restaurant Week Menu for 2022 and Our Chicago Specials Menu.
“This year the starter is a play on one of Catch 35’s most popular new dishes-Charred Spanish Octopus,” added Catch 35’s Chef. “I chose to char the octopus because it adds a nice delicate smokiness for the perfect bite. I added richness from the caramelized chili sauce & a hint of tang with Greek yogurt.”
Don’t miss out Chicago and Naperville foodies! Spanish Octopus is only available for a limited time.
Stay Tuned!
There are many ways to celebrate at Catch 35 – Stay tuned to our upcoming events on Facebook & Instagram! So whether you are celebrating your next special occasion or having a night out with friends. Catch 35 offers a wide range of fresh seafood and mouth watering steak options for you.
See you there!