Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg of fresh octopus
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of white wine
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cleaning the octopus
Start by cleaning the octopus thoroughly under cold running water. Remove its beak, eyes, and innards. Rinse the tentacles and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Tenderizing the octopus
Place the octopus into a pot of salted boiling water for approximately 5 minutes to help tenderize it.
Step 3: Cooking the octopus
After tenderizing, transfer the octopus to a separate pot and add the minced garlic, chopped onion, cherry tomatoes, white wine, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the octopus is tender.
Step 4: Finishing touches
Once the octopus is cooked to perfection, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve it warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips:
- If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, you can grill the octopus instead of boiling it.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice to the cooking liquid can enhance the overall taste.
- Ensure not to overcook the octopus as it can become tough and rubbery.
Preparing Luciana-style octopus may seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple steps, you can create a truly impressive and flavorful seafood dish. Embrace your inner chef and embark on a culinary journey to Italy with this recipe. Your friends and family will be amazed by your culinary skills and will savor every bite. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean at home!
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