Delicious Stewed Octopus with Peas: An Easy Second Course Recipe

When it comes to seafood, octopus is a delicacy that offers a unique taste and texture. Its tender yet firm flesh, when cooked correctly, can truly impress your taste buds. If you’re looking for an elegant and flavorful way to enjoy octopus, look no further than this delicious stewed octopus with peas recipe. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will make for a fantastic second course meal.

To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of octopus (cleaned and cut into small portions)
– 1 onion (finely chopped)
– 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
– A handful of cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup of dry white wine
– 1 cup of fish or vegetable broth
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

First, prepare the octopus. If you purchase fresh octopus, remember to properly clean it by removing the beak, eyes, and viscera. Then, rinse it thoroughly under cold water. You can also ask your fishmonger for pre-cleaned octopus, which makes the preparation process much simpler.

In a large pot, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. This will take about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the cherry tomatoes to the pot, stirring them for a couple of minutes until they soften slightly. This step helps release their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Once the tomatoes are softened, it’s time to add the octopus pieces. Make sure they are well-coated in the onion and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for a few minutes, allowing the octopus to release its juices and become slightly golden.

Now, pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate, leaving behind a lovely aroma.

Afterward, add the cup of broth to the pot. Cover it and let it simmer gently for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the octopus becomes tender. Keep an eye on the liquid level while cooking, as you may need to add a little more broth if it reduces too quickly.

When the octopus is nearly done, add the peas to the pot. If you’re using fresh peas, blanch them briefly before adding them in. If you’re using frozen peas, no prior preparation is necessary. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the peas are tender.

Once the stewed octopus and peas are cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

To serve, portion the stewed octopus with peas onto plates. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant touch. This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a star second course, or accompanied by some crusty bread and a light salad.

In conclusion, this delicious stewed octopus with peas recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your seafood cooking. Impress your guests, or simply treat yourself, with this easy-to-follow recipe that offers tender octopus immersed in a flavorful broth with sweet peas. The combination of ingredients and careful cooking techniques will leave you with a dish that is both elegant and satisfying.