Spicy octopus / chilli octopus / chilli boava / Maldivian spicy octopus / spicy octopus by Zesty.MV

octopus

🥗Healthier: squid

💰Cheaper: chicken

Squid offers a similar texture while chicken is more accessible.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: regular milk

Almond milk reduces calories while regular milk is often less expensive.

green chili

🥗Healthier: jalapeño

💰Cheaper: bell pepper

Jalapeño provides heat with fewer calories, while bell pepper is milder and more affordable.

coconut oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Olive oil is healthier, and vegetable oil is often less expensive.

In a pot add cleaned octopus (I got already cleaned fresh octopus. However, I washed and cleaned the tentacles to remove any soil or dirt left in it. Also removed the innards and the eyes and then cleaned the inside of the head).

No need to add water as the octopus will release lots of liquid while being cooked. (if you do want to add water, add very little water 1/4 to 1/2 cup water).

Put the lid on and cook it for 15 mins on medium heat. I got 2 small octopuses that weigh total 1 kg so the cooking time is less. If you got 1 big octopus that weigh the same cook it for 20-25 mins.

Once cooked, let it cool down. Now cut it into small bite size pieces.

In a clean pot, add sliced onion, chopped garlic, curry leaves, rampa leaf, chilli of your choice and saute till onions are lightly browned.

Once onions are tender, add grinded chilli paste mixture, tomato paste and salt. Combine well for 2-3 mins and add 1/2 cup water. Cook on low heat for 10 mins.

Add the cooked octopus pieces and combine all together.

Add 1 1/2 cup water. Lid on, cook it on low heat for 15-20 mins, so that all the spices from the chilli paste mixture will be combined well the octopus pieces. Stir in between (1-2 times).

Now lid off, cook for 2-3 more mins. Serve.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens