For a richer flavor, use homemade tomato sauce instead of canned tomatoes. Adjust the amount of curry powder and mixed spice to your personal preference. Serve over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or on its own as a hearty stew.
Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of Malta with this rustic Octopus in Tomato Sauce. Tender octopus, simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce enriched with red wine, citrus notes, and aromatic spices, creates a symphony of flavors. Served over spaghetti or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a celebration of Mediterranean comfort food.
Prepare the Octopus: Place octopus in a large pot filled with enough lightly salted water to cover; bring to a boil, then simmer over medium heat until the octopus is opaque and tender (approximately 15 minutes). Drain the octopus, cool slightly, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, fresh mint leaves, and chopped garlic. Cook and stir until the onion is softened and fragrant. Incorporate the curry powder and mixed spice, stirring to coat the aromatics evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer in Flavor: Introduce the octopus pieces to the skillet. Pour in the red wine, lemon zest, and orange zest; allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the whole peeled tomatoes, cubed potatoes, drained peas, pitted ripe olives, tomato paste, bay leaves, and white sugar. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently until the octopus and potatoes are tender, allowing the flavors to deepen (approximately 45 minutes).
For a richer flavor, use homemade tomato sauce instead of canned tomatoes. Adjust the amount of curry powder and mixed spice to your personal preference. Serve over spaghetti, with crusty bread, or on its own as a hearty stew.
Reggie Feest
Jun 12, 2025Be careful not to overcook the octopus, or it will become tough.
Hank Kshlerin
May 4, 2025I used canned diced tomatoes instead of whole tomatoes, and it worked out fine.
Eliseo Krajcikstroman
May 4, 2025This recipe is a bit time-consuming, but it's well worth the effort.
Zackery Hirthe
Apr 21, 2025I served this over polenta instead of spaghetti, and it was delicious!
Delilah Stroman
Mar 21, 2025My family loved this dish! It's definitely going into our regular rotation.
Kyle Wiza
Feb 15, 2025I added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and it was perfect!
Estella Baumbach
Feb 3, 2025This recipe is amazing! The octopus was so tender, and the sauce was bursting with flavor.
Ocie Pollich
Jan 25, 2025The citrus zest really brightens up the sauce. I highly recommend using fresh herbs for the best flavor.