Grilled Spanish Octopus with Paprika and White Wine

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Grilled Spanish Octopus with Paprika and White Wine.

1. Step 1

   Begin by assembling all the essential ingredients for this delightful octopus dish.

2. Step 2

   In a saucepan, combine finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, a bay leaf, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and a splash of olive oil.

3. Step 3

   Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften, which should take about five minutes.

4. Step 4

   Next, pour in white wine to create a flavorful braising liquid and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Step 5

   Carefully introduce the octopus to the saucepan, ensuring it is thoroughly coated in the aromatic liquid.

6. Step 6

   Cover the pot, lower the heat, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

7. Step 7

   After this initial cooking time, turn the octopus over and continue simmering until it becomes tender, which will take an additional 40 to 45 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Once cooked, remove the octopus from the heat and transfer it to a large bowl.

9. Step 9

   Pour the braising liquid over the octopus and place the bowl over a larger bowl filled with ice water to cool it to room temperature.

10. Step 10

    After cooling, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight for optimal flavor infusion.

11. Step 11

    When you're ready to serve, take the octopus out of the refrigerator.

12. Step 12

    Use paper towels to gently blot away any excess braising juices and, if desired, peel off the purple skin.

13. Step 13

    Slice the octopus into three or four serving-sized pieces and lightly brush them with olive oil.

14. Step 14

    In a separate saucepan, bring the remaining braising liquid to a boil, then remove it from the heat.

15. Step 15

    Strain out the solids and transfer the liquid to a mixing bowl.

16. Step 16

    Allow it to cool for about ten minutes before stirring in fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a zesty serving sauce.

17. Step 17

    Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat.

18. Step 18

    Place the octopus pieces on the grill and cook until the flesh is beautifully seared and nearly charred, about three to four minutes.

19. Step 19

    Flip the pieces and grill the other side until dark brown and caramelized, another three to four minutes.

20. Step 20

    Finally, transfer the grilled octopus to a serving platter, slice it into thick diagonal pieces, and drizzle the prepared braising liquid mixture over the top.

21. Step 21

    For an extra kick, consider dusting with a touch of cayenne pepper before serving.

22. Step 22

    Enjoy this exquisite dish that brings the taste of the sea right to your table!.