Ingredients:
- 1 whole octopus (approximately 2 pounds)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
Step 1: Cleaning the Octopus
Start by cleaning the octopus thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the beak, eyes, and innards, if present. Peel off the thin, transparent skin and rinse well. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Tenderizing the Octopus
Octopus can be tough, so it’s important to tenderize it before grilling. One effective method is to freeze the octopus for 24 hours and then defrost it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can repeatedly beat it with a meat mallet for about 5 minutes. Tenderizing will ensure a tender and succulent result.
Step 3: Marinating the Octopus
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the cleaned and tenderized octopus into the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Grilling the Octopus
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the marinated octopus from the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature. Grill the octopus for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it develops a slightly charred appearance and is cooked through.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Once the octopus is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Grilled octopus pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your homemade grilled octopus, impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!