Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsProof On MainCharred Octopus Recipe

Charred Octopus Recipe

Inspired by Proof On Main
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Bagna Cauda, Lime, Toast

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Ingredients

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Octopus

Method

Prepare the Octopus

  1. 1

    Boil the Octopus

    In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Once boiling, add the octopus and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until tender.

  2. 2

    Cool and Cut

    Once cooked, remove the octopus from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut the tentacles into manageable pieces.

Char the Octopus

  1. 3

    Prepare for Grilling

    Preheat your grill to high heat. Brush the octopus pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

  2. 4

    Grill the Octopus

    Place the seasoned octopus on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred.

Make the Bagna Cauda

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil and Butter

    In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted.

  2. 6

    Add Garlic and Anchovies

    Add the minced garlic and anchovy fillets to the melted mixture. Cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is soft but not browned.

  3. 7

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped parsley, then remove from heat. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Prepare Lime & Toast

  1. 8

    Toast the Bread

    Brush the slices of bread with olive oil and toast on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.

  2. 9

    Serve with Lime

    Cut the lime into wedges for serving alongside the grilled octopus and bagna cauda.

Serve

  1. 10

    Plate the Dish

    Arrange the charred octopus on a serving platter. Serve the bagna cauda in a small bowl for dipping, alongside the toasted bread and lime wedges.

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