Croatian-style Linseed Octopus

Ingredients

In this Croatian adaptation of the Portuguese dish "Polvo a modo ze de lino," we incorporate the traditional flavors and techniques of Croatian cuisine. The original Portuguese dish is typically prepared by boiling the octopus and serving it with linseed sauce. However, in this Croatian version, we marinate the octopus and grill it to enhance the flavors and add a smoky touch. The Croatian spices and ingredients used in the marinade give the dish a distinct Mediterranean flair. We alse have the original recipe for Polvo a modo ze de lino, so you can check it out.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) octopus 1 kg (2.2 lbs) octopus
• 4 tablespoons olive oil 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons linseed 2 tablespoons linseed
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried rosemary, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Add the octopus to the marinade and toss until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the octopus from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it is tender and slightly charred.
5. 5.
   While the octopus is grilling, toast the linseed in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown.
6. 6.
   Remove the octopus from the grill and sprinkle the toasted linseed over the top.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Octopus — To tenderize the octopus, you can either freeze it overnight or gently pound it with a meat mallet before marinating.
• Linseed — Make sure to toast the linseed just before serving to preserve its crunchiness and enhance its flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can reduce the amount of minced garlic in the marinade.
• Serve the Croatian-style Linseed Octopus with a side of fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the octopus on a stovetop grill pan or broil it in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style Linseed Octopus as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the octopus before serving for added richness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled octopus on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle the toasted linseed over the top. The vibrant colors of the dish, with the charred octopus and golden linseed, will make it visually appealing.