Tender, melt-in-your-mouth octopus is often perceived as a culinary challenge, reserved for experienced chefs. But what if I told you achieving this delicate texture is surprisingly simple? This recipe for slow-cooked octopus with hummus and Mount Zero olives demystifies the process, transforming a potentially intimidating ingredient into a star of a truly delicious and elegant meal. Forget complicated techniques and long hours of preparation; this recipe focuses on harnessing the power of slow cooking to unlock the octopus's natural sweetness and tenderness.
The rich, earthy flavors of the hummus perfectly complement the octopus's subtle brininess, while the Mount Zero olives add a delightful briny and slightly bitter counterpoint. Ready to experience the magic of slow-cooked octopus? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating this unforgettable dish.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Oven
Ingredients
- Octopus
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Chili
- Lemon thyme
- Cherry tomatoes
- Black pepper
- Mount Zero pink salt
- Mount Zero Hummus
- Preserved lemon
- Olive bread (Akimbo bakery)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Slow Cook the Octopus
- Brine the octopus for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the octopus from the brine and place it in a pot. Completely cover it with olive oil.
- Add garlic, chili, and lemon thyme to the pot.
- Bake in the oven at 130 degrees for one hour, or until a knife or skewer can easily pierce the thickest part.
Step 2. Make the Cherry Tomato Dressing
- Smash cherry tomatoes to create a dressing.
- Season the tomato dressing with black pepper and Mount Zero pink salt.
Step 3. Assemble the Dish
- Spread hummus on toasted olive bread, top with slow-cooked octopus and the cherry tomato dressing, and garnish with preserved lemon.
Read more: Arabian Flame Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi) Recipe
Tips
- Hummus is delicious on its own, but also versatile in many recipes.
- This recipe is perfect for warmer months.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 40-50g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of olives instead of Mount Zero olives?
Yes! Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or even a mix of your favorite olives will work well. The Mount Zero olives offer a specific briny and slightly bitter taste, but other olives will still complement the dish nicely.
2. How can I tell if the octopus is cooked through?
The octopus should be very tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it still feels tough, continue cooking in the slow cooker for another 30 minutes and check again. Overcooked octopus will be tough, so it's better to slightly undercook it than overcook.
This simple recipe proves that creating a restaurant-quality meal can be surprisingly easy. Enjoy the tender octopus, the creamy hummus, and the burst of briny olives in every bite. With minimal effort, you’ve unlocked the secret to a truly memorable and delicious dish.