Pohnpei-Style Octopus Stew
A rich and savory stew featuring tender octopus simmered in coconut milk with local vegetables and spices, a Pohnpei specialty.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 800 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 300 g Taro leaves(chopped)
- 1 medium Breadfruit(peeled, cored, and cubed)
- 1 small Chili pepper(finely chopped (optional))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil (if desired, or use a bit of the coconut cream) over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the cleaned and cut octopus pieces to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the octopus starts to firm up and change color, about 5-8 minutes.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk. Add the cubed breadfruit and chopped taro leaves. If using, add the chopped chili pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. - 5
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the octopus is very tender and the breadfruit is soft.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 6
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the stew is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- 7
Serve hot, traditionally with rice or taro root.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To tenderize octopus, you can pound it lightly before cutting, or freeze and then thaw it.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓If taro leaves are unavailable, spinach or other leafy greens can be substituted, though the flavor will differ.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like sweet potato or yam.
- A splash of lime juice at the end can brighten the flavors.