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Pulpo a la Gallega

Tender octopus dressed with fruity olive oil, smoked paprika, and sea salt in the style of Galicia. A sublime Spanish appetizer or light dinner.

50 minMediumServes 4220 cal/serving

SpanishDinnerStovetopStandard

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Ingredients

  • 2 lbs octopus (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz waxy potatoes (for serving), cubed
  • 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. If the frozen octopus is used, do not thaw it.

  2. 2

    Plunge 2 lbs octopus (fresh or frozen) into the boiling water. Add 1/2 lemon. Simmer for 35-40 minutes until tentacles are tender.

  3. 3

    While octopus cooks, boil 12 oz cubed waxy potatoes (for serving) in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  4. 4

    Remove octopus from water and let cool slightly. Cut tentacles into bite-sized pieces.

  5. 5

    Heat 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, being careful not to brown.

  6. 6

    Arrange potatoes on a platter. Top with octopus pieces and 1/2 diced red bell pepper.

  7. 7

    Drizzle warm garlic oil over octopus. Sprinkle generously with 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1 tsp sea salt.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately while oil is still warm.

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Questions

What is Pulpo a la Gallega?

Tender octopus dressed with fruity olive oil, smoked paprika, and sea salt in the style of Galicia. A sublime Spanish appetizer or light dinner. This reference files it under Spanish dinner: made on the stovetop, rated medium and about 50 minutes start to finish.

How much time should I plan for Pulpo a la Gallega?

As written, 50 minutes: 10 of prep and 40 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 2 (40 minutes): "Simmer for 35-40 minutes until tentacles are tender."

What can I use instead of smoked paprika in Pulpo a la Gallega?

The entry for Pulpo a la Gallega calls for 1 tsp smoked paprika. In its place: Sweet paprika with a small pinch of cumin, or a few drops of liquid smoke. Chipotle powder works if you want heat as well.

Does Pulpo a la Gallega contain shellfish?

Yes: 2 lbs octopus (fresh or frozen). The full allergen list for this entry is shellfish. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How many calories are in Pulpo a la Gallega?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) is about 220 calories, with 28 g protein, 3 g carbohydrate and 11 g fat, plus 520 mg sodium.

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