Slow-cooked octopus

Slow-cooked octopus is a fish main course that is traditionally cooked in an earthenware pot. This method is undertaken with the lid on the pot and long, slow cooking. The result is a wonderfully tender and flavourful octopus, served with bread - or even on its own because, with the inclusion of potatoes, this octopus dish can be considered a complete meal in itself.

Wash the octopus and remove its sack and beak. Put it in a saucepan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and brown until it takes on a red colour all over. Now add the parsley, celery, bay leaf and onion. Let them cook together for another twenty minutes. Then it’s the turn of the other ingredients: tomato passata, salt, pepper, oregano, chilli (to your taste), and diced potatoes. Cover and cook for another half hour. Serve with good crusty bread.

A typical dish from Salento

Octopus in casserole is a traditional recipe from Salento, cooked slowly in a terracotta pot called a casserole. This cooking method enhances the flavor of the octopus, making it tender and fragrant.

Ingredients and variations

The main ingredients include octopus, tomatoes, garlic, parsley, chili pepper, and sometimes potatoes or olives. Frozen octopus can also be used but must be properly thawed.

How to cook it

The octopus is cooked together with the other ingredients in the casserole without adding water, as it releases its own during cooking. It is important to start cooking with cold water to ensure slow cooking that tenderizes the meat.

Cooking time

Cooking time varies depending on the size of the octopus but usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. A pressure cooker can be used to save time.

Octopus casserole with Thermomix

Thermomix users can prepare the octopus casserole following the correct times and temperatures to ensure even cooking and maintain the tender texture.

What is Polpo alla Luciana?

Polpo alla Luciana is a traditional Neapolitan recipe where octopus is slowly cooked with tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic. No water is added, and the slow cooking enhances the natural flavor of the octopus.

How to cook octopus so it becomes tender?

To get tender octopus, it’s important to cook it slowly over low heat. It is recommended to start cooking with cold water, without boiling it first. Slow cooking allows the collagen in the octopus to break down gradually, making the meat soft.

How to prevent octopus from becoming rubbery?

Avoid quick cooking at high temperatures. The secret is patience: let the octopus simmer slowly for a long time without rushing. If grilling or sautéing, it is better to boil it first for 40-60 minutes.

What is the best way to eat octopus?

Octopus can be enjoyed in many ways: in salads, grilled, stewed like in the casserole recipe or alla Luciana. The best way depends on personal taste, but gentle and controlled cooking is always key to enhancing its texture and sea flavor.

How to cook octopus in a pan?

Before cooking in a pan, it’s advisable to boil the octopus to soften it. Then you can sauté it over high heat with some olive oil, garlic, and parsley. A light caramelization will add a tasty yet tender texture.

Should the octopus be placed in cold or boiling water?

It is best to start cooking with cold water for a slow and even cooking that makes the octopus tender.

How many calories does stewed octopus have?

Stewed octopus is a light dish with about 120-150 calories per 100 grams, ideal for a balanced diet.