Octopus

Available from the Fish Express Counter at Arkadia Foodstore Portomaso

How Best to Cook Octopus

One of the best recipes is "Pulpo a la Gallega". This Spanish dish features tender octopus slices seasoned with sea salt, smoked paprika, and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Traditionally, it's served on a wooden platter over a bed of thinly sliced boiled potatoes, sometimes with a sprinkling of Spanish paprika and chopped parsley for garnish. 

Recipe: Pulpo a la Gallega

Ingredients:

• 1 octopus
• 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• Sea salt
• Smoked paprika
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Method:

1. Start by tenderizing the octopus. You can either freeze and thaw it or massage it vigorously for about 10-15 minutes.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the octopus and simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender.

3. Meanwhile, boil the sliced potatoes in a separate pot of salted water until they are tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.

4. Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Then, slice it into rounds or bite-sized pieces.

5. Arrange the sliced potatoes on a serving platter and place the sliced octopus on top of the potatoes.

6. Sprinkle generously with sea salt and dust the dish with smoked paprika to taste.

7. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over everything and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

8. Serve the Pulpo a la Gallega warm, with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious juices.

Health Benefits

1. High in protein: Octopus is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall cellular function.

2. Low in fat: Octopus is naturally low in fat, making it a healthier protein option compared to some other meats.

3. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Octopus contains important nutrients such as vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and energy metabolism, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids: Octopus is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.

5. Collagen: Octopus contains collagen, a protein that supports skin, joint, and bone health.

Overall, incorporating it into your diet in moderation can contribute to a well-rounded and nutritious eating plan.

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