Pulpo a la Gallega
Galician-Style Octopus
A classic Galician dish featuring incredibly tender octopus served over thinly sliced potatoes, generously seasoned with smoky Spanish paprika and high-quality olive oil. Simple, elegant, and deeply flavorful.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Whole octopus(Fresh or frozen and thawed. Ensure it's cleaned (ink sac and beak removed).)
- 4 large Medium potatoes(Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best.)
- 1 tbsp Coarse sea salt(For boiling water, plus more for seasoning.)
- 1 Bay leaf(Optional, for added aroma in the cooking water.)
- 2 tbsp Spanish paprika (Pimentón de la Vera)(Use sweet (dulce) or a mix of sweet and smoked (agridulce). For a spicier kick, use hot (picante).)
- 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil(A good quality Spanish olive oil is recommended.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the octopus: If using frozen octopus, ensure it is fully thawed. Rinse the octopus under cold running water. If not already done, remove the beak (located at the center of the tentacles) and the ink sac.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Boil the octopus: Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the octopus completely. Add 1 tablespoon of coarse sea salt and the optional bay leaf. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat (100°C / 212°F).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Temper the octopus: Holding the octopus by the head, carefully dip the tentacles into the boiling water for 5-10 seconds, then lift it out. Repeat this 'dip and lift' motion 2-3 more times. This helps the tentacles curl and prevents the skin from splitting.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Simmer the octopus: Submerge the entire octopus into the boiling water. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer (around 85°C - 90°C / 185°F - 194°F). Cover the pot and cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the octopus is fork-tender. To test for doneness, insert a skewer or fork into the thickest part of a tentacle; it should go in with little resistance.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 5
Cook the potatoes: While the octopus is simmering, peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds. Once the octopus is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the sliced potatoes to the simmering octopus broth. Cook until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes, reserving some of the cooking liquid.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 6
Slice the octopus: Once the octopus is cool enough to handle, slice the tentacles into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds using a sharp knife. You can also slice the head into bite-sized pieces.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 7
Assemble the dish: Arrange the cooked potato slices on a serving platter (traditionally a wooden one). Place the sliced octopus pieces evenly over the potatoes. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle liberally with Spanish paprika and season with coarse sea salt to taste. Serve immediately while warm.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra tenderness, some traditional recipes suggest adding a wine cork to the boiling water, though its effectiveness is debated.
- ✓Using a good quality Spanish paprika (Pimentón de la Vera) is crucial for authentic flavor. The smoky notes are characteristic of this dish.
- ✓Don't overcook the octopus, as it can become rubbery. Test for tenderness frequently towards the end of the cooking time.
- ✓Serve on a rustic wooden platter for an authentic presentation.
- ✓Be generous with the paprika and olive oil; they are key flavor components.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a spicy kick, use Pimentón de la Vera Picante (hot paprika) or a mix of sweet and hot.
- Add a few cloves of crushed garlic to the boiling water along with the octopus for subtle garlic notes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.