Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 4
A timeless coastal tradition, Sun-Dried Octopus is a beloved dish in Greece, Italy, and other Mediterranean regions. By drying freshly caught octopus under the sun, the natural flavors intensify, creating a deeply savory, umami-packed delicacy. Once dried, the octopus is grilled over an open flame, resulting in a tender yet slightly chewy texture with a perfect smoky char.
Ingredients For Sun-Dried Octopus�
☑ 1 large fresh octopus (about 2 lbs) 🐙
☑ 2 tablespoons 🥄 coarse sea salt 🧂
☑ 2 tablespoons 🥄 olive oil 🫒
☑ 1 tablespoon 🥄 red wine vinegar 🍷
☑ ½ teaspoon 🥄 black pepper ✨
☑ 1 teaspoon 🥄 dried oregano 🌿
☑ 1 lemon, cut into wedges 🍋
🔥 For Serving:
☑ Warm pita or crusty bread 🍞
☑ Extra virgin olive oil drizzle 🫒
☑ Fresh parsley & capers for garnish 🌿
👩🍳 Cooking Steps For Sun-Dried Octopus�
🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
1️⃣ Clean and rinse the octopus thoroughly.
2️⃣ Using a meat mallet, gently tenderize the tentacles.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and let sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
🔥 Step 2: Sun-Dry the Octopus
1️⃣ Hang the octopus on a line or wooden rack in direct sunlight for 1-2 days.
2️⃣ Rotate occasionally, ensuring even drying.
3️⃣ The octopus should turn deep reddish-brown and slightly leathery.
🔥 Step 3: Grill to Perfection
1️⃣ Heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Brush the dried octopus with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3️⃣ Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until slightly charred and smoky.
🔥 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Slice into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with extra olive oil.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with oregano, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
3️⃣ Serve warm with pita, capers, and fresh parsley for an authentic Mediterranean experience!
🐙 Deeply savory, smoky, and rich in umami, Sun-Dried Octopus is a true delicacy that embodies Mediterranean coastal cuisine! Whether paired with a glass of ouzo or served as a meze, this dish is an unforgettable taste of the sea.
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