Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Max's Oyster Bar›Charred Mediterranean Octopus Recipe

Charred Mediterranean Octopus Recipe

Inspired by Max's Oyster Bar
Time2h
Serves4

Make Charred Mediterranean Octopus Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Octopus Preparation

Method

Octopus Preparation

  1. 1

    Boil the Octopus

    In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the bay leaves, black peppercorns, and salt.

  2. 2

    Cook the Octopus

    Gently place the cleaned octopus into the boiling water. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for approximately 40-50 minutes until the octopus is tender. You can test tenderness by piercing it with a fork.

  3. 3

    Cool the Octopus

    Once cooked, remove the octopus from the pot and let it cool slightly. Reserve some of the cooking liquid for later use if desired.

Charring Marinade

  1. 4

    Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped oregano, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly to create a marinade.

  2. 5

    Marinate the Octopus

    Cut the cooled octopus into manageable pieces (arms and head). Toss the pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer for more flavor.

Charring

  1. 6

    Preheat Grill or Grill Pan

    Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

  2. 7

    Char the Octopus

    Place the marinated octopus pieces on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and slightly crispy.

Serving

  1. 8

    Plate and Garnish

    Remove the octopus from the grill and place on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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