Hobotnica ispod Peke
Hobotnica ispod peke, meaning 'octopus under the bell,' is a celebrated Dalmatian dish prepared using a traditional Croatian cooking method. Octopus is slow-cooked with potatoes and vegetables under a dome-shaped lid (peka) covered with hot embers, resulting in incredibly tender octopus and flavorful, aromatic vegetables. This dish is a true culinary experience, often reserved for special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 kg Adriatic octopus(cleaned, preferably defrosted)
- 1 kg New potatoes(washed and quartered)
- 2 large Onions(quartered)
- 2 medium Carrots(cut into chunks)
- 1 Red bell peppers(sliced (optional))
- 4 Garlic cloves(crushed)
- 3 Fresh rosemary sprigs
- 2 Bay leaves
- 200 ml Dry white wine
- 150 ml Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If the octopus is not already defrosted, thaw it completely. Clean it thoroughly, removing any beak or eyes, and rinse well.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven (suitable for the peka method), place the octopus and dry-roast it over medium-high heat without any liquid. Turn occasionally until the octopus releases its liquid and it evaporates, leaving a concentrated purple residue at the bottom.
- 3
Remove the octopus from the pot and set aside. Add a little olive oil to the pot and sauté the crushed garlic and onions until softened.
- 4
Add the quartered potatoes, carrots, and optional bell peppers to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- 5
Return the octopus to the pot, placing it on top of the vegetables. Add the rosemary sprigs and bay leaves. Pour in the dry white wine.
- 6
Cover the pot with the 'peka' lid (or a heavy ovenproof lid). If cooking traditionally, place the peka over hot embers and cover the lid with more embers. If using an oven, ensure the oven is preheated to 180°C (350°F).
- 7
Cook for approximately 2 hours, or until the octopus is very tender and the potatoes are cooked through. Check periodically and add more embers or adjust oven temperature as needed. Baste the octopus and vegetables with the cooking juices halfway through.
- 8
Once cooked, remove the peka from the heat (or oven). Let the dish rest, covered, for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the juices to redistribute.
- 9
Serve the Hobotnica ispod peke hot, directly from the peka if possible, ensuring each serving includes octopus, potatoes, and vegetables with plenty of the flavorful juices. Crusty bread is essential for soaking up the juices.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The 'peka' method requires patience and a consistent heat source.
- ✓If you don't have a traditional peka setup, a heavy Dutch oven or cast-iron pot with a tight-fitting lid can be used in a conventional oven.
- ✓The quality of the octopus is paramount; fresh, Adriatic octopus is preferred.
- ✓Don't skip the dry-roasting step for the octopus; it's key to its texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or even leeks.
- A splash of lemon juice can be added at the end for brightness.