Discover how to make Pulpo a la Gallega, a classic Spanish dish from Galicia. This simple yet flavorful recipe features tender octopus served with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a touch of salt. Perfect as a tapas dish or a delightful main course, Pulpo a la Gallega embodies the essence of Spanish cuisine. Follow our step-by-step guide to recreate this traditional Galician favorite at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 large octopus (about 2-3 pounds)

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 onion, quartered

- 1-2 cloves of garlic, crushed

- 1 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika

- Coarse sea salt

- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Octopus: Rinse the octopus under cold water. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the bay leaf, onion, and garlic. Submerge the octopus in the boiling water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the octopus is tender. To test, insert a fork into the thickest part of the tentacle; it should slide in easily.

Cool and Slice: Once cooked, remove the octopus from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces, including the tentacles.

Season and Serve: Arrange the octopus pieces on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with sweet paprika and coarse sea salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful oil.

Tips:

- To ensure the octopus is tender, cook it slowly and avoid overcooking.

- For added flavor, you can also use smoked paprika.

Experience the taste of Galicia with this easy and authentic Pulpo a la Gallega recipe!

Nutritional Value

Large Octopus (about 2-3 pounds)

  - Calories: 500-750 (for 2-3 pounds)

  - Protein: 80-120g

  - Fat: 4-6g

Benefits: Octopus is a great source of lean protein, vitamins (such as B12), and minerals (including iron, zinc, and selenium). It is low in fat and calories, making it a nutritious choice for a high-protein diet.

Bay Leaf

  - Calories: Negligible

Benefits: Bay leaves are used primarily for flavoring. They contain antioxidants and essential oils that may offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, though they are used in small amounts.

Onion (1, quartered)

  - Calories: 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Fiber: 1g

Benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. They support heart health, boost immunity, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic (1-2 cloves, crushed)

  - Calories: 5-10 (per clove)

Benefits: Garlic is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help improve heart health, boost the immune system, and has antimicrobial effects.

Olive Oil (1 cup)

  - Calories: 2400

  - Fat: 28g (Monounsaturated Fat: 20g)

Benefits: Olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. It supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and can improve cholesterol levels.

Sweet Paprika (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 30

Benefits: Paprika is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and C. It provides a boost to the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also adds flavor without extra calories.

Coarse Sea Salt

  - Calories: Negligible

Benefits: While it adds flavor, sea salt should be used in moderation due to its sodium content. Excessive sodium can lead to hypertension and other health issues.

Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)

  - Calories: 5 (per tablespoon)

Benefits: Parsley is rich in vitamins (especially vitamin K and C) and antioxidants. It aids digestion, supports immune health, and can help reduce inflammation.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and nutritious dish, emphasizing lean protein and healthy fats, while also providing various health benefits from the spices and herbs.