Craving a bold and flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this authentic Chinese Stir-Fried Octopus with Garlic. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of tender octopus, aromatic garlic, and a subtly spicy kick, all in a matter of minutes. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this dish is designed for both busy weeknights and impressive dinner parties. The vibrant flavors and satisfying texture of the octopus will leave you wanting more. Imagine succulent octopus pieces, glistening with a flavorful garlic sauce, served over fluffy rice or alongside your favorite noodles.
This recipe elevates the humble octopus into a culinary masterpiece, proving that exceptional food doesn't have to be complicated. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the octopus to achieving that perfect stir-fry balance. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Bigger file (for boiling)
Ingredients
- Octopus
- Garlic sprouts: a bunch
- Red pepper
- Ginger: 6 slices (for initial prep) + 3 slices (for blanching)
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- White vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Light soy sauce: 1/4 teaspoon
- Oyster sauce: 1/4 teaspoon
- Peanut oil: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Octopus and Ingredients
- Chop garlic sprouts and red pepper. Slice 6 pieces of ginger and save some for later. Then prepare 3 slices of ginger for blanching.
- Turn the octopus head out, remove the beak and any teeth. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and scrub the octopus to clean it thoroughly. Rinse with water twice.
- Separate the head and legs. Cut the head into two pieces, and cut each of the eight legs into four pieces.
Step 2. Blanch the Octopus
- In a pan, add 3 slices of ginger, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, and enough water. Bring to a boil, then add the octopus and blanch for 30 seconds. Immediately transfer to cold water to stop cooking.
Step 3. Stir-fry the Octopus
- Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a pan over high heat. Add the shredded ginger and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the octopus and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
Step 4. Season and Finish
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of light soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of oyster sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar, and 8 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine evenly.
- Add garlic sprouts and red pepper to the pan, stir-fry until tender.
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- Ensure the octopus is thoroughly cleaned before cooking.
- Blanching the octopus helps to maintain its tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: approximately 5-10g
- Carbs: approximately 10-20g
- Protein: approximately 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen octopus for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Frozen octopus may release more water, potentially affecting the stir-fry's consistency.
2. What if I don't have Chinese cooking wine?
You can substitute with dry sherry, mirin, or even a splash of dry white wine. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
This Chinese Stir-Fried Octopus with Garlic recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a truly exceptional dish. The satisfying blend of textures and flavors will surely become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results and don't hesitate to experiment with additions like chili flakes or other vegetables to personalize this versatile recipe.