Nauru Octopus in Coconut-Lime Sauce
Tenderized octopus simmered in a rich coconut milk and lime sauce, infused with local aromatics. This dish highlights the abundant seafood and tropical flavors of Nauru.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned, tentacles separated)
- 1 can (400ml) Coconut milk
- 1/4 cup Lime juice
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1-2 Green chilies(deseeded and finely chopped (optional))
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(fresh, chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
To tenderize the octopus, place it in a pot with enough water to cover. Add half the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2
In a separate pot or deep skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil (or reserved octopus cooking liquid) until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies (if using) to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and the remaining lime juice. Add the cooked octopus pieces, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- 5
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the octopus to absorb the sauce.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Tenderizing octopus is key. If it's not tender enough after the initial boiling, continue simmering.
- ✓Don't overcook the octopus once it's in the sauce, as it can become rubbery.
- ✓Serve with steamed rice or taro to soak up the delicious sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the sauce for added color and texture.
- For a spicier dish, leave the seeds in the green chilies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.