Octopus has become one of the most widely eaten and decadent foods on the planet. It is enjoyed across cultural boundaries and is a common fixture on fine dining menus. But octopus is usually considered food for the professional chef to prepare. Most home cooks wouldn’t know where to start with serving an octopus. To help you build up some confidence with this rewarding food, here are some tips on how to work with it.
How Do You Receive It?
Octopus can be bought whole, ready prepared, fresh, frozen, or in cans. If it is already prepared, then you might receive it smoked, dried, or already marinated. If you are just starting out, it might be best to buy a ready marinated octopus to find your feet.
How to Cook with Fresh Octopus
Fresh octopus needs to be tenderized before eating. If it hasn’t already been tenderized, beat it with a mallet before you start cooking. It is then best to braise or stew it.
What Flavors Should You Pair with Octopus?
You can fashion a brilliant accompaniment to your octopus out of a rich red wine and balsamic vinegar sauce. The best herbs to use are parsley, sage, rosemary, or paprika. If you’re going for a more Asian-style dish, it goes great with sesame oil, chili, and soy sauce.
