Dish

Arroz de polvo

Octopus Rice

Arroz de polvo is a flavorful and hearty Portuguese dish that is typically served as a main course. It is made by cooking onions and tomatoes in a pot with olive oil. Once the onions and tomatoes are soft, octopus is added to the pot along with rice and water. The mixture is cooked until the rice is tender and the octopus is cooked through. Arroz de polvo is typically served with a side of bread and a glass of red wine.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Portuguese cuisine

Rice Dish

Origins and history

Arroz de polvo originated in Portugal and is a staple of Portuguese cuisine. It is believed to have been influenced by Moorish cuisine. Today, it is a popular dish in Portugal and is often served at special occasions such as weddings and holidays.

Dietary considerations

This dish is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Variations

There are many variations of arroz de polvo that include different spices such as paprika or saffron. Some variations also include vegetables such as bell peppers or peas.

Presentation and garnishing

To make the perfect arroz de polvo, use good quality octopus and cook it until it is tender. The rice should be cooked until it is tender and flavorful. The dish can be garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.

Tips & Tricks

When cooking the octopus, it is important to cook it until it is tender. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the size of the octopus. To test if the octopus is cooked, pierce it with a fork. If it is tender and easy to pierce, it is cooked. If it is tough and difficult to pierce, it needs to cook longer. Additionally, the dish can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

Side-dishes

Arroz de polvo is typically served with a side of bread and a glass of red wine. It can also be served with a green salad or a vegetable side dish.

Drink pairings

Arroz de polvo is typically served with a glass of red wine, which pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish. Alternatively, a light and refreshing white wine can also be served. Beer or a non-alcoholic beverage such as iced tea or lemonade can also be served.