Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

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Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)

A flavorful dish featuring tender charred octopus paired with a zesty chili lime romesco sauce.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min
Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of octopus with sauce)

Octopus

  • 1
    small octopus
  • Sunflower oil
  • Mediterranean seasoning
  • Salt

Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

  • 2
    large roasted bell peppers
  • 1
    Fresh chili (optional)
  • 2tbsp
    sunflower oil
  • 2clove
    garlic
  • 2
    limes, juiced
  • 1bundle
    fresh coriander
  • Salt and black pepper

How to make Charred Octopus with Chili Lime Romesco Sauce

Prepare the Octopus

  1. Place the octopus in a pan of water and bring it to a simmer over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.

    Step 1.1: Place the octopus in a pan of water and bring it to a simmer over high heat
  2. Check doneness by piercing with a fork; the octopus should be tender. Remove from water and pat dry.

Season and Sear

  1. Coat the octopus with sunflower oil, Mediterranean seasoning, and salt.

  2. Pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until the exterior is crispy.

Make the Sauce

  1. Blend roasted bell peppers, chili, sunflower oil, garlic, lime juice, and coriander until smooth.

    Step 3.1: Blend roasted bell peppers, chili, sunflower oil, garlic, lime juice, and coriander until smooth
  2. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. Plate the charred octopus with a generous dollop of chili lime romesco sauce. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

    Step 3.1: Plate the charred octopus with a generous dollop of chili lime romesco sauce

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the octopus in the seasoning for a few hours before cooking.

  2. Adjust the amount of fresh chili in the sauce to suit your spice preference.

FAQS

  1. How do I know when the octopus is properly cooked?

    The octopus is properly cooked when it is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. After simmering for about 25 minutes, check for doneness.

  2. Can I use frozen octopus for this recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen octopus. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking, and follow the same simmering instructions.

  3. What can I substitute for Mediterranean seasoning?

    If you don't have Mediterranean seasoning, you can create a blend using dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or use Italian seasoning as an alternative.

  4. Is the chili in the romesco sauce necessary?

    The chili is optional and adds heat to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it or reduce the amount used.

  5. What sides pair well with charred octopus?

    Charred octopus pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

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Diana Opoti

(@dianaopotieats)

Self taught cook making restaurant style food. ...

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