Polipetti Affogati (Braised Baby Octopus) – A Delicious Mediterranean Appetizer
Serves: 4
Category: Antipasti (Appetizers)
If you’re looking to impress your guests with a flavorful Mediterranean dish, Polipetti Affogati is the perfect choice. This braised baby octopus recipe, traditionally prepared in Italian coastal regions, offers a delightful combination of tender octopus, tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a casual gathering or a special meal, this dish brings out the natural sweetness of the octopus while being enriched with the flavors of olive oil, white wine, and fresh herbs. The braising process ensures that the octopus is melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it a dish to remember.
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Baby octopus (Polipetti) | 1 kg |
Canned peeled tomatoes (Pomodori pelati) | 800 g |
Dried chili pepper (Peperoncino) | To taste |
Garlic (Aglio) | 1 clove |
Fresh parsley (Prezzemolo) | 1 bunch |
White wine (Vino bianco) | 50 ml |
Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | 40 g |
Salt (Sale fino) | To taste |
Freshly ground black pepper (Pepe nero) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 8 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sodium | 550 mg |
Cholesterol | 35 mg |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
If you’re using cleaned baby octopus, rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. If they aren’t pre-cleaned, take your time to clean the octopus according to the instructions for proper preparation. Once cleaned, place the octopus in a colander and set aside to drain.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic clove, peeled and lightly crushed, along with the dried chili pepper. Let them sizzle for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the oil to absorb the flavors of the garlic and chili without letting them burn, so be careful not to overcook.
Step 3: Add the Octopus
Once the garlic is fragrant, it’s time to add the octopus to the pan. Arrange the octopus in a single layer, allowing them to lightly brown on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. This will help develop a deep flavor and seal in the natural juices of the octopus. Stir gently to avoid tearing the delicate meat.
Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine
After the octopus has browned, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan. Allow the wine to cook down for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally. The alcohol will evaporate, leaving behind a rich depth of flavor that complements the octopus.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Season
Once the wine has reduced, add the canned peeled tomatoes along with their juice. Break the tomatoes up with a spoon, letting them integrate with the octopus. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t overdo it with the salt, as the tomatoes will also add some natural saltiness to the dish.
Step 6: Simmer and Braise
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pan with a lid. Let the octopus cook slowly for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and tenderness of the octopus. For perfect tenderness, check the octopus by piercing it with a fork. If it’s tender and easily pierced, it’s ready.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the octopus is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Discard the garlic clove (using kitchen tongs or a spoon to remove it carefully). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Polipetti Affogati is best served hot, directly from the pan, with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. You can also pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors of this dish. This is a perfect appetizer for a festive meal, or even as a light main course with a side of salad.
Tips for the Best Polipetti Affogati:
- Choosing the Octopus: Fresh baby octopus is ideal for this recipe, but frozen octopus can also work well. If you’re using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Herb Variation: While parsley is traditional, you can experiment with adding other Mediterranean herbs like basil or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Make it Spicy: If you love spicy dishes, you can increase the amount of chili pepper. Just be sure to taste and adjust the heat to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a light and refreshing salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with pasta for a more filling dish.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, Polipetti Affogati will surely be a hit with its bold flavors and tender octopus.