Discover the savory flavors of Faiai Fe'e, a traditional dish featuring octopus cooked in rich coconut milk and aromatic spices. This recipe combines tender octopus with a creamy, spiced coconut sauce for a delightful taste of Polynesian cuisine. Perfect for a unique dinner option or a special occasion, learn how to make this flavorful dish with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp fish sauce

- 1 tbsp curry powder

- 1 tsp ground turmeric

- 1 tsp paprika

- 1 tsp ground black pepper

- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)

- 1 tbsp lime juice

- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Octopus: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Add Aromatics: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Octopus: Add the octopus pieces to the pan, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they start to brown slightly.

Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the octopus evenly with the spices.

Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the octopus is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Adjust Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning with lime juice, salt, and additional chilies if desired.

Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy this flavorful dish with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Notes:

- For extra tenderness, consider marinating the octopus in lemon juice and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.

- Adjust the spiciness by varying the number of green chilies according to your preference.

Nutritional Values

Octopus (2 lbs or 900g)

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Protein: 50g

  - Fat: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Rich in high-quality protein, low in fat, and a good source of vitamins (especially B12) and minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium. Supports muscle health and overall energy.

Coconut Milk (1 can or 14 oz)

  - Calories: 450 kcal

  - Protein: 5g

  - Fat: 48g

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats (medium-chain triglycerides), vitamins C and E. Supports energy and overall health.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins C and B6. Supports immune health and digestion.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 16 kcal

  - Protein: 0.8g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Boosts immune function.

Ginger (1 thumb-sized piece, minced)

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. May help with nausea and improve circulation.

Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp)

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, which can support heart health.

Soy Sauce (2 tbsp)

  - Calories: 20 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains small amounts of protein and minerals.

Fish Sauce (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Adds umami flavor and contains some protein and minerals.

Curry Powder (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 24 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits: Contains various spices that provide antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Enhances flavor.

Ground Turmeric (1 tsp)

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports joint health and digestion.

Paprika (1 tsp)

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.3g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A. Adds flavor and color.

Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp)

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Contains piperine, which aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

Green Chilies (1-2, chopped)

  - Calories: 5-10 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may help with metabolism and provide some vitamin C.

Lime Juice (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 4 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Provides vitamin C, which supports immune health and enhances flavor.

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (for garnish)

  - Calories: 1 kcal (per tablespoon)

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

Benefits: Adds vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and enhances flavor.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.