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Easy Baked Mediterranean Octopus

A delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dining table, featuring tender baked octopus infused with aromatic spices and olive oil.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2.5 – 3 pounds octopus, fresh (or thawed if frozen) The star of our dish, offers a unique texture.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Adds a tangy richness.
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Contributes a smooth, fruity flavor.
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper Rounds out the flavors.
  • 2 pieces bay leaves Infuse a subtle earthiness.
  • 5 kernels all spice Adds warmth and complexity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano Brings Mediterranean flair.
  • 1 whole garlic clove, with the skin (optional) Offers sweet, mellow flavor during roasting.
  • To taste extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for serving Final touches for serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
  2. If your octopus isn’t pre-cleaned, make two cuts below and above the eyes to remove them, cut through the sac to pull out internal organs, and cut around the beak to remove it. Wash the octopus under running cold water.
  3. Create a cross with two sheets of foil, each about 1.5-2 feet. Place a piece of baking paper in the center, position the octopus on top, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, sprinkle with remaining ingredients, and wrap the foil securely around the octopus.
Cooking
  1. Set the wrapped octopus on a baking sheet and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  2. Unwrap the foil and check tenderness with a fork. If not tender, bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Serving
  1. Once fork-tender, carefully remove the octopus from the foil, cut it into pieces, and drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving.

Notes

Consider tenderizing the octopus beforehand by beating it with a kitchen hammer for even better results. Marinating in olive oil and spices for a few hours enhances flavor.