Tender, subtly sweet octopus transformed into a fiery, flavourful feast – that's the promise of this spicy stir-fry. Forget rubbery seafood; this recipe unlocks the octopus's inherent deliciousness, achieving a perfect balance of texture and taste. We'll guide you through expertly tenderizing the octopus, ensuring it remains succulent even after high-heat cooking. The vibrant sauce, a harmonious blend of fiery chilies, aromatic garlic, and fragrant ginger, will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Imagine the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables mingling with the delightful chew of perfectly cooked octopus.
This isn't just another stir-fry; it's a culinary adventure. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to elevate a humble octopus into a restaurant-quality dish. Ready to embark on this flavour journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this unforgettable spicy stir-fried octopus together.
Tools Needed
- scissors
- pan
- colander
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Octopus
- Rinse the octopus thoroughly in water.
- Turn it over, cut open the head, and carefully remove the intestines, eggs, and entrails. Remove the eyes.
- Remove the connected membrane to easily remove the entrails. Rinse thoroughly.
- Rinse the cleaned octopus thoroughly.
- Add 1 tbsp of sugar to the octopus to coagulate mucus and reduce fishy smell. Rinse thoroughly to remove the sugar.
- Add flour to the octopus and rub evenly to remove foreign substances. Rinse thoroughly to remove the flour.
- Blanch the octopus in boiling water with 1 tbsp of Cheongju for 30 seconds to eliminate fishy smell and maintain a soft texture. Rinse and drain.
Step 2. Prepare the Sauce and Vegetables
- Combine gochujang, coarse red pepper powder, fine red pepper powder, minced garlic, raw sugar, mirin, oyster sauce, soy sauce, ginger, pepper, and corn syrup. Mix well. Adjust the spiciness to your preference.
- Cut cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Chop green onions and green chili peppers.
Step 3. Stir-fry and Combine
- Heat grape seed oil in a pan and stir-fry cabbage and green onions until thoroughly cooked. Set aside.
- Add the seasoning to the pan and bring to a light boil.
- Add the octopus to the pan and stir-fry for about 1 minute until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Add the stir-fried cabbage, green onions, and green chili peppers. Stir-fry briefly.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add sesame oil, mix lightly, and serve.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- Removing mucus well and boiling in advance significantly reduces water production during stir-frying.
- Sugar is more effective than salt in removing mucus.
- Stir-frying cabbage separately prevents the octopus from becoming tough and watery.
- Adding the octopus after boiling the seasoning allows for quicker stir-frying, reducing moisture and preventing toughness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How do I ensure my octopus is tender and not chewy?
Proper tenderizing is key! Use the pounding method described in the recipe or simmer it gently for a while before stir-frying. This breaks down the tough fibers.
2. Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the chili level to your preference. Other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli can be added, but keep in mind cooking times may need slight adjustments.
This spicy stir-fried octopus recipe delivers a delightful explosion of flavor and texture, showcasing the octopus's versatility in a surprisingly simple dish. From tenderizing techniques to perfectly balanced seasonings, we've covered everything you need to create this culinary masterpiece at home. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound octopus expertise!