| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 307 | 11g | 2g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 4g | 23g | 1.25g |
Why I Love Italian Polpo con Patate
If there’s one dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with bold flavor, it’s Polpo con Patate. I first stumbled upon this delightful Italian treasure during a summer trip to the Amalfi Coast. The harmonious blend of tender octopus and creamy potatoes made it an instant favorite. There’s something incredibly comforting about the way the ingredients come together — akin to a culinary embrace from loved ones.
The Charm of Simplicity
One of the reasons I adore Polpo con Patate is its straightforward preparation. With just a handful of pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and parsley, this dish elevates humble ingredients into a masterpiece. The octopus is delicate and sophisticated, while the potatoes offer a comforting, familiar anchor. The addition of lemon slices brings a zesty brightness that keeps your palate intrigued with each bite.
When I prepare this dish for my family, it often reminds me of fusion dishes like my grandmother’s hearty Gujarati stews, which also rely on simple, fresh ingredients. Both cuisines emphasize the importance of letting natural flavors shine through, and that’s something I strive to embody in my cooking.
A Delightful Pairing
Polpo con Patate is remarkably versatile and can be served as a light main course or as part of an opulent seafood spread. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a simple arugula salad or a glass of crisp white wine, like a Vermentino. If you’re in the mood for more seafood, it complements dishes like Mussels in White Wine Sauce beautifully.
One chef whose work often inspires me is Lidia Bastianich. Her passion for authentic Italian cuisine lends a touch of tradition to dishes like this. Just like Lidia, I believe in the magic of a well-prepared meal bringing people together. A dish like Polpo con Patate does just that; it’s a conversation starter, a shared memory, and a burst of flavor on every forkful.
So go ahead and give Polpo con Patate a try. It’s a little slice of Italy that you can recreate in your kitchen, turning an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. Trust me, your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lb octopus
- 2 lb potatoes
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Method
Step One
Rinse the octopus well under cold water. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the lemon slices and 1 clove of minced garlic. Add the octopus to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the octopus is tender.
Step Two
While the octopus is cooking, peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place the potatoes in another pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step Three
Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine the cooked octopus, boiled potatoes, and the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Step Five
Drizzle the mixture with extra virgin olive oil and add the chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything well to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step Six
Serve the Polpo con Patate warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!
