Baked Octopus Seafood Recipe

Baked Octopus

Baked octopus is a delightful seafood dish that, when prepared correctly, offers a tender and flavourful experience. Traditionally, octopus can be tough and chewy, but with the right techniques, such as tenderising or freezing, you can achieve a perfect texture. My recipe will guide you through preparing a delicious baked octopus that is sure to impress.

people_outline

4 Portions

access_time

Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 2 Hours, depending on size

Ingredients

1 medium-large octopus tentacles 800g-1kg (defrosted if frozen)
3 tbsp olive oil
zest of 1 lemon
1 tbsp fennel seeds
1tsp chilli flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp salt

To serve

Olive oil
Lemon wedges

Method

Filling

Preheat an oven to 150C. Place the tentacles in a bowl and toss with all the ingredients until coated. Lay in a single layer in an oven tray that just fits the octopus.
Cover with foil and leave to cook for 1 1/2 - 2 hours. The octopus is ready when (tender a knife should easily pierce through it). Drain the liquid (you can reserve liquid for risotto or a similar dishes).
Slice tentacles into serving pieces (whole tentacles or pieces 2-3cm long). Serve hot or cold drizzled with a little olive oil and lemon wedges.

Alternative on BBQ

To barbecue: Cool the octopus and refrigerate until ready to barbecue. Heat a barbecue to high lightly toss individual tentacles in a little olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes, turning regularly until chard. Serve with lemon wedges