Feke mo Lolo
Octopus with Coconut Cream
A rich and savory dish featuring tender octopus simmered in creamy coconut milk with aromatic spices, showcasing the bounty of the ocean and the versatility of coconut in Tuvaluan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh cilantro
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 4
Add the cut octopus pieces to the pot. Stir well to coat the octopus with the spice mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the octopus is tender. Stir occasionally.
- 7
Once the octopus is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice or breadfruit.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To tenderize the octopus, you can pound it lightly with a mallet before cutting, or add a teaspoon of baking soda to the cooking liquid.
- ✓If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
- ✓Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some diced tomatoes or bell peppers along with the onions for extra flavor and color.
- For a spicier dish, add a chopped chili pepper with the garlic and ginger.