Grilled Octopus (Greek Htapothi Sti Skhara)

Greek Grilled Octopus is awesome! I know that some may be a little intimidated by octopus but really I would eat it every day given the opportunity. Perhaps it is an acquired taste but I think it is the texture and the way it looks that scares most people. I absolutely love the stuff and this classic Greek preparation is no exception. I do add a cork in the pot, some say it is a old wives tale, I actually think it does help tenderize the octopus. This can be served as an appetizer or part of a mezedes.

1 medium-large octopus, beak and ink-sac removed (most octopi are already cleaned)
⅓ cup red wine
splash balsamic or wine vinegar
fresh or dried Greek oregano

Garnish:
extra-virgin olive oil
sea salt
black pepper, freshly cracked
lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Place your octopus (throw in the cork) in a pot over high heat and cover. Allow the octopus to boil for about 5-8 minutes. Take the lid off and have a look to see if the liquid has been released (the octopus should be almost covered in liquid, If not enough liquid add water).

Place the cover back on and reduce the heat to a medium-low and simmer for about 45 minutes (checking occasionally to see if there’s enough braising liquid). You may add some more water and continue to braise until the octopus is fork-tender.

Remove from the heat and add your wine, balsamic vinegar and some Greek oregano. Allow the octopus to steep until the liquid has cooled or even better, place in the fridge overnight.

When you’re ready to grill your octopus, preheat your gas or charcoal grill to a high heat.

Take your octopus out of the liquid and place in a bowl. Add some olive oil, some balsamic vinegar, dried Greek oregano, freshly ground black pepper and if needed at all, some sea salt. 

Place the octopus on the grill and sear for about 2-3 minutes on both sides.

Remove from the grill and place on a serving plate.

Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a good sprinkle of dried Greek oregano and a little sea salt.

Makes 4 appetizer portions.