Palauan Octopus and Taro Leaf Curry
A flavorful curry featuring tender octopus simmered with nutrient-rich taro leaves in a fragrant coconut milk base, spiced with local aromatics.
🧂 Ingredients
- 750 g Octopus(cleaned, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 500 g Taro leaves(fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili flakes(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Fish sauce
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 100 ml Water(if needed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh taro leaves, wash them thoroughly and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften and reduce itchiness. Drain and chop. If using frozen, thaw and chop.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the octopus pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the octopus starts to firm up and turn opaque.
💡 Tip: Don't overcook the octopus at this stage, as it will cook further in the curry. - 5
Stir in the turmeric powder and chili flakes, cooking for another minute.
- 6
Add the chopped taro leaves, coconut milk, fish sauce, and water (if using). Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the taro leaves are well coated with the liquid. - 7
Bring the curry to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 40-50 minutes, or until the octopus is tender and the taro leaves are fully cooked and have softened into the sauce. Stir occasionally.
💡 Tip: If the curry becomes too thick, add a little more water. - 8
Stir in the lime juice just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
💡 Tip: Lime juice adds a fresh brightness to the curry. - 9
Serve hot, typically with steamed rice.
💡 Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a slice of chili if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Tenderizing octopus can be done by simmering it in water for about 30-40 minutes before adding it to the curry, or by freezing and then thawing it, which helps break down the fibers.
- ✓Be mindful of the itchiness of taro leaves; proper blanching is key.
- ✓Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred level of spice.
🔄 Variations
- Add other seafood like shrimp or squid along with the octopus.
- Incorporate diced sweet potato or pumpkin for added sweetness and texture.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of curry powder along with the turmeric.