Grilled Octopus with Smoked Paprika

Grilling octopus is one of the best ways to bring out its natural flavors while giving it a delightful char and texture. The combination of tender meat with the smokiness of paprika creates a perfect balance, making this dish an excellent choice for a hearty meal. This grilled octopus recipe uses simple yet bold ingredients and a few easy steps to deliver a show-stopping seafood experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole octopus (approximately 1.5 kg or 3.3 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Octopus

Start by preparing the octopus. If you're buying a fresh octopus, make sure it's been properly cleaned. If it's frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. To tenderize the octopus, it's a good idea to simmer it in water. This method ensures that it’s tender before you grill it, preventing any chewy texture in the final dish.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and gently place the octopus in the water. Let it simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the octopus. Check for doneness by poking the thickest part of the tentacle with a fork—it should be tender but not falling apart.

Once cooked, drain the octopus and let it cool slightly. At this point, you can also cut the tentacles if you prefer to grill them separately, or you can grill the whole octopus depending on your presentation preference.

2. Marinating the Octopus

While the octopus is cooling, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, sea salt, and minced garlic. This blend will coat the octopus with rich flavors and enhance its natural taste.

Pat the octopus dry with paper towels, and then rub the marinade all over it, making sure every part is covered. Allow the octopus to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can refrigerate it for a couple of hours or even overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.

3. Grilling the Octopus

Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature. Brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent the octopus from sticking. Once the grill is hot, place the octopus directly on the grates. Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until you get those beautiful char marks. The goal is to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

If you're grilling tentacles separately, make sure to turn them occasionally to get an even char on all sides. For a whole octopus, flip it halfway through to ensure even grilling.

The smoked paprika in the marinade will help create a gorgeous reddish-brown color on the surface of the octopus, giving it a distinctively appetizing look.

4. Serving the Grilled Octopus

Once grilled, remove the octopus from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will allow the juices to settle and the flavors to develop further. Slice the tentacles into portions, if not already done, and arrange them on a serving plate.

For a burst of freshness, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a touch of acidity that perfectly complements the smokiness of the paprika.

Tips for the Best Grilled Octopus:

• Tenderizing the octopus: Simmering the octopus before grilling ensures a soft, tender texture that melts in your mouth. Don’t skip this step!
• Char without overcooking: Grilling the octopus for just a few minutes on each side ensures a crispy, caramelized surface without overcooking the meat. Keep an eye on it to avoid drying it out.
• Smoked paprika: The use of smoked paprika gives the dish a distinct smoky flavor that works beautifully with the natural sweetness of the octopus.
• Marinade time: The longer you let the octopus marinate, the deeper the flavor will be. While 30 minutes is the minimum, allowing the octopus to sit in the marinade overnight will result in a more flavorful dish.

Suggested Side Dishes:

Grilled octopus is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement this seafood delight:

• Roasted vegetables: Try grilling or roasting vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplants. The smokiness of the vegetables will match perfectly with the flavors of the octopus.
• Potato salad: A simple potato salad dressed with olive oil and herbs can provide a comforting and satisfying side.
• Herbed couscous: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs like mint or cilantro brings a fresh contrast to the smoky octopus.
• Grilled bread: Serve with slices of grilled bread brushed with olive oil, offering a crunchy and rustic element to the meal.

Why Choose Smoked Paprika?

Smoked paprika, also known as pimentón, is a spice made from dried and smoked peppers. It adds a deep, smoky flavor to any dish and is particularly popular in Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. Its mildly sweet yet robust flavor enhances the natural taste of grilled seafood without overpowering it. When combined with the charred texture of the grilled octopus, smoked paprika offers a unique and flavorful experience.

Variations:

• Spicy grilled octopus: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Lemon herb octopus: Swap smoked paprika with fresh lemon zest and a mix of oregano and thyme for a lighter, herby flavor.
• Garlic butter octopus: After grilling, toss the octopus in a garlic butter sauce for a rich and indulgent twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts:

Grilled octopus with smoked paprika is an impressive and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or a simple family meal. The smoky, charred exterior combined with the tender, succulent meat of the octopus offers a unique taste that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting to explore seafood recipes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Enjoy the flavorful journey of grilled octopus, and don't forget to garnish it with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon to bring out the best in this dish!