Nauru Octopus in Coconut Sauce
Tender octopus simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce, infused with local aromatics, showcasing the abundant seafood and coconut utilization in Nauruan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned, tentacles separated, and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 200 ml Coconut cream
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 small Chili(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
- 0.25 cup Cilantro(fresh, chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If the octopus is not pre-tenderized, you can tenderize it by boiling it in water for 30-45 minutes, then draining and cutting it. Alternatively, freeze and thaw the octopus to help break down the fibers.
💡 Tip: Tenderizing the octopus is key to a pleasant texture. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook until fragrant.
- 4
Add the cut octopus pieces to the pot. Stir well to coat with the aromatics.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk and coconut cream. Add the lime juice, chopped chili (if using), salt, and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the octopus is mostly submerged in the liquid. - 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook until the octopus is very tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cooking time will depend on the size and tenderness of the octopus. - 7
Uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: The sauce should be rich and creamy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Serve this dish with steamed rice to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.
- ✓For a spicier dish, add more chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- ✓If you can't find fresh octopus, frozen octopus can be used. Thaw it completely before preparing.
🔄 Variations
- Add some diced bell peppers or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- A splash of fish sauce can add an extra layer of umami.
- Serve over mashed taro or breadfruit for a more traditional island meal.