Indulge in the savory flavors of Spain with Gibraltar's rendition of Pulpo a la Gallega. Tender octopus, boiled to perfection, is delicately seasoned with paprika, sea salt, and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Served atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, transporting your palate to the picturesque shores of Galicia. Immerse yourself in the culinary fusion of two vibrant cultures with Gibraltar's exquisite Pulpo a la Gallega.

Here's a recipe for Gibraltar Pulpo a la Gallega:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole octopus (about 2-3 pounds)
• 4-5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sweet Spanish paprika (pimentón dulce)
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1- Rinse the octopus under cold water and remove any impurities or debris from the surface.

2- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the octopus. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

3- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the octopus to the pot. You can either place it directly in the water or use a mesh strainer to lower it in gently.

4- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the octopus simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is tender. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the thickest part of the octopus; it should slide in easily.

5- While the octopus is cooking, prepare the potatoes. Place the diced potatoes in a separate pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, then drain and set aside.

6- Once the octopus is tender, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the octopus into thick pieces.

7- Arrange the sliced octopus on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sweet Spanish paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

8- Serve the Pulpo a la Gallega alongside the cooked potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing over the octopus, if desired.

9- Enjoy your Gibraltar Pulpo a la Gallega while it's still warm, savoring the rich flavors of the tender octopus, fragrant olive oil, and smoky paprika. Buon appetito!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients in Gibraltar Pulpo a la Gallega:

Octopus (per 100g serving):

• Calories: 82 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Low in fat and carbohydrates.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and selenium, which support overall health and immune function.

Extra virgin olive oil (per tablespoon - 15ml):

• Calories: 119 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:

• High in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
• Contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to improved digestive health.

Sweet Spanish paprika (per teaspoon - 2g):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• Sugars: 0.3g
• Protein: 0.3g

benefits:

• Contains capsaicin, a compound known for its potential to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.
• Rich in antioxidants, including carotenoids like beta-carotene, which support eye health and immune function.
• Adds flavor without adding significant calories or fat.

Potatoes (per 100g serving, boiled):

• Calories: 87 kcal
• Protein: 1.9g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1.8g
• Sugars: 0.9g
• Sodium: 6mg

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• High in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, which are essential for overall health and vitality.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the size and specific variety of the ingredients used, as well as cooking methods. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are for general reference and may not account for added seasonings or variations in preparation.