Description
This Greek Octopus Stew with Potatoes is a rich, flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Slow-simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce with aromatic herbs and tender potatoes, this traditional Greek recipe is a warm and comforting meal. Serve it with crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete and satisfying dish!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or fresh grated tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup vegetable or seafood broth
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Octopus
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the octopus and cook for about 10 minutes until it starts to firm up. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Stew Base
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, bay leaf, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar
Pour in the red wine vinegar and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the acidity to balance the sauce.
Step 5: Simmer the Octopus
Add the octopus pieces and stir well. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes, until the octopus is tender.
Step 6: Add the Potatoes
Stir in the cubed potatoes and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf and garnish the stew with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- With Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping into the rich tomato sauce.
- Over Rice or Orzo – A great way to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Paired with a Greek Salad – A fresh and crunchy side balances the hearty stew.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Greek