Cooking and Tasting popular Maltese dishes

octopus

🥗Healthier: squid

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Squid is lower in calories, while canned tuna is more affordable.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: white wine

Grape juice offers a non-alcoholic option, while white wine is often less expensive.

Clean and prepare the octopus by removing the beak and ink sac.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.

Pour in red wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce.

Add the octopus to the pot and stir well to coat with the mixture.

Season with bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.

Pour in enough water to cover the octopus and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and cover, simmering for 45-60 minutes until tender.

Add diced potatoes and carrots, cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Stir in chopped parsley and capers just before serving.

Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: