Cooking Octopus On The Grill Is Way Easier Than You Think

Cover Grilled Octopus with lemon & oregano Jess Pryles (1536x1024)

Table of Contents

• What is Octopus?
• How to Prep Octopus for Grilling?
• What are the Best Grilling Techniques?
• How Long to Grill Octopus?
• How to Serve Grilled Octopus?

What is Octopus?

Octopus is a sea creature that has eight arms and a round shaped head. It is considered as a delicacy in many parts of the world, including Greece, Spain, Japan, and Portugal. Octopus is a lean source of protein that is also rich in vitamins and minerals. It is low in fat and calories, making it an ideal food for those who are trying to eat healthily.

How to Prep Octopus for Grilling?

The first step in preparing octopus for grilling is to clean it thoroughly. Rinse it under cold running water and remove any sand, debris or visible ink sacs. To tenderize the meat, you can either beat it against a hard surface with a mallet or freeze it overnight. Freezing the octopus helps to break down the muscle fibers, making it more tender.

Once the octopus is thawed, you can marinate it with your favorite herbs and spices. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper works well. Place the octopus in a bowl and coat it with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour or overnight.

What are the Best Grilling Techniques?

Grilling octopus requires a bit of expertise, but the end result is worth the effort. The best way to grill octopus is to use a high heat method, such as direct grilling or broiling. Direct grilling involves cooking the octopus directly over the heat source. Broiling, on the other hand, involves cooking the octopus under the heat source. Both methods work well, but direct grilling is preferred for the charred flavor it gives the octopus.

When grilling octopus, it is important to brush it with oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill. You can also place the octopus on skewers to make it easier to handle. Cook the octopus for 3-4 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and has a nice charred appearance. Be careful not to overcook the octopus, as this will make it tough and chewy.

How Long to Grill Octopus?

The cooking time for grilled octopus depends on the size of the octopus and the grilling method you are using. As a general rule, it takes about 3-4 minutes per side to grill octopus. However, this can vary based on the thickness of the tentacles and the heat of the grill. It is important to keep an eye on the octopus while it is cooking and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How to Serve Grilled Octopus?

Grilled octopus can be served in a variety of ways. One popular way is to serve it with a simple salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing. You can also serve it as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables and potatoes. Another way to serve grilled octopus is as a tapa or appetizer, with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

When serving grilled octopus, it is important to slice it thinly against the grain to make it easier to eat. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added flavor and color.

Conclusion

Grilled octopus is a tasty and healthy dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By following the proper techniques for cleaning, marinating, and grilling octopus, you can create a dish that is tender, flavorful, and visually appealing. Whether you serve it as a main course or an appetizer, grilled octopus is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.