This recipe for Octopus in Coconut Milk combines tender octopus with the rich flavors of coconut milk and spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. Octopus, known for its delicate texture and ability to absorb flavors, is simmered until tender in a fragrant mixture of coconut milk, onions, garlic, and spices like turmeric and paprika. The result is a dish that showcases the natural sweetness of the octopus balanced with the creamy richness of the coconut milk and the aromatic spices.

The history of this recipe can be traced back to coastal regions where octopus is commonly harvested and coconut milk is a staple ingredient in many dishes. This combination of seafood and coconut is a classic in many tropical cuisines, reflecting the culinary traditions of regions where both ingredients are abundant. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, each with its own unique blend of spices and seasonings, but all highlighting the delightful pairing of tender octopus and creamy coconut milk.

Whether enjoyed as a comforting home-cooked meal or served as a special dish at gatherings, Octopus in Coconut Milk offers a delicious taste of coastal flavors and culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg octopus, cleaned and cut into pieces

- 2 cups coconut milk

- 1 onion, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons cooking oil

- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until fragrant.

3. Add the octopus pieces to the pot and cook until they start to brown slightly.

4. Sprinkle turmeric powder and paprika over the octopus. Stir well to coat evenly.

5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

7. Cover the pot and let the octopus simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until tender. Stir occasionally.

8. Once the octopus is tender, remove from heat.

9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your tender octopus simmered in rich coconut milk with spices!

Nutrition Value:

1. Octopus (1 kg, cleaned and cut into pieces):

  - Calories: Approximately 290 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 5 grams

  - Protein: 56 grams

  - Fat: 2 grams (low in saturated fat)

  - Sodium: 330 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 220 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K

  - Minerals: High in iron, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc

  - Nutritional Benefit: Octopus is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12 which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production.

2. Coconut Milk (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 960 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

  - Protein: 8 grams

  - Fat: 100 grams (mainly saturated fat)

  - Sodium: 40 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and some B vitamins

  - Minerals: Rich in manganese, copper, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefit: Coconut milk provides a rich source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is particularly high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are beneficial for heart health and energy production.

3. Onion (1, chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 40 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 5 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and folate

  - Minerals: Good source of potassium and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefit: Onions are low in calories and fat but high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They also add flavor and aroma to dishes.

4. Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 12 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

  - Protein: 0.6 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese

  - Minerals: Rich in sulfur compounds and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefit: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It also adds a distinctive flavor to dishes.

5. Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated):

  - Calories: Approximately 2 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams

  - Protein: 0.1 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese

  - Minerals: Rich in gingerol and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefit: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It adds a warm, spicy flavor to dishes.

6. Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 1.4 grams

  - Protein: 0.2 grams

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Sodium: 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and some B vitamins

  - Minerals: Rich in curcumin and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefit: Turmeric is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It adds a vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor to dishes.

7. Paprika (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 1.3 grams

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Sodium: 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin K

  - Minerals: Rich in antioxidants and capsaicin

  - Nutritional Benefit: Paprika adds color and a mild, sweet flavor to dishes. It also contains antioxidants and vitamins beneficial for health.

8. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: Negligible (typically less than 5 calories per serving)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies based on usage

  - Cholesterol: Negligible

  - Vitamins: Negligible

  - Minerals: Varies based on type of salt (e.g., iodized salt, sea salt)

  - Nutritional Benefit: Salt and pepper are used for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of dishes. However, excessive sodium intake should be monitored for individuals with certain health conditions.

9. Cooking Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 240 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 28 grams (varies based on type of oil)

  - Sodium: 0 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Varies based on type of oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil)

  - Minerals: Varies based on type of oil

  - Nutritional Benefit: Cooking oil is used for sautéing and cooking ingredients. Healthier options like olive oil provide monounsaturated fats beneficial for heart health.

10. Fresh Cilantro (for garnish, optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 1 calorie

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams

  - Protein: 0.1 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 1 milligram

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K

  - Minerals: Rich in antioxidants, potassium, and calcium

  - Nutritional Benefit: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to dishes and provides vitamins and minerals beneficial for health.

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as portion size, cooking methods, and specific brands of ingredients used.