The importance of choosing High-Quality Octopus
Octopus is a high-quality food usually reserved for special occasions, where it even takes the place of codfish at the table. This is the case with Christmas dinner in Portugal's Minho region.
How do you choose the best octopus?
You should look at an octopus for its characteristic colour and smell. Its colour should be vibrant, between shades of pink and purple, and it should be firm and moist. It should smell pleasant, like the sea, with no strong or unpleasant odours. If you notice dark spots or damaged areas, avoid them. Look for medium-sized octopuses as they are easier to cook. Larger octopuses may be old and more rigid, while smaller octopuses may be too young. Buy from reliable sources: fishmongers or suppliers with a good quality record.
The organs in the head of the octopus are usually removed, but it is necessary to wash it thoroughly to remove all the sand. Always buy the octopus whole as it is easier to observe all these details and achieve the perfect texture when cooking.
Cooking octopus
People say that to cook octopus, you don't invent it, you do it the old-fashioned way. In a pan of boiling water, immerse the octopus by the head between 3 and 5 times, for a few seconds, and only then let it cook. To make sure it has reached the right consistency, stick a knife in it. If you feel some resistance, the octopus is not yet cooked. Once cooked, remove it from the pan so that it doesn't continue to cook in the hot water. You can even use a thermal shock technique with cold water. The secret to a delicious octopus is the cooking point, which guarantees a soft texture.
When it comes to traditional delicacies, main ingredients or delicacies such as octopus, it's important to choose well. This choice will be reflected in the final result. At Atlantico you'll find quality octopus, taking many of these factors into account. You'll also find 3 sizes of octopus that will suit the different characteristics of your business.
Find out Canosa Octopus!