Polvo Guisado
A hearty and flavorful stewed octopus dish, often prepared with tomatoes, onions, and spices, reflecting the Portuguese influence on Angolan cuisine. This recipe focuses on tender octopus in a rich sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned, tentacles separated)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(chopped)
- 150 ml White wine(dry)
- 2 Bay leaf
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Cumin
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- a handful Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
To tenderize the octopus, you can either freeze it for at least 24 hours or boil it in lightly salted water for about 30-45 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 7-10 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped red bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- 5
Add the paprika and cumin, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- 6
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- 7
Add the pre-cooked octopus pieces, bay leaves, and enough water or fish stock to almost cover the octopus. Bring to a simmer.
- 8
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it stew for at least 1 hour, or until the octopus is very tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- 9
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- 10
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot, typically with rice or funge.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Tenderizing the octopus is crucial for this dish. Don't skip the freezing or pre-boiling step.
- ✓Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- ✓For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika and cumin.
🔄 Variations
- Add sliced potatoes or carrots to the stew.
- Incorporate a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.