Menu

Why Baby Octopus is a Great Choice

 

The Team

by The Team

   Back to Blog

Quick Baby Octopus Recipes: Easy & Delicious Ideas for Any Meal

If you’re looking to elevate your seafood game, baby octopus is a versatile and flavourful option that cooks quickly and impresses every time. Perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or even a fun lunch, these quick baby octopus recipes will have you enjoying gourmet seafood in under 30 minutes.

Why Baby Octopus is a Great Choice

Baby octopus is not only tender and delicious but also packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals. Unlike larger octopus, baby octopus requires minimal cooking time, making it perfect for quick meals without sacrificing flavour.

3 Quick Baby Octopus Recipes

1. Garlic and Lemon Baby Octopus

Ingredients:

  • 500g baby octopus, cleaned

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

  2. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Toss in the baby octopus and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper.

  5. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

2. Marinated Baby Octopus Skewers

Ingredients:

  • 500g baby octopus, cleaned

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper

  • Skewers

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

  2. Toss the baby octopus in the marinade for 10 minutes.

  3. Thread octopus onto skewers and grill or pan-fry for 5-6 minutes.

  4. Serve hot as an appetiser or main dish.

Tip: Perfect for BBQs or outdoor dining!

3. Baby Octopus Takoyaki Balls

Ingredients:

  • 200g baby octopus, chopped into small pieces

  • 1 cup takoyaki flour (or all-purpose flour + dashi powder)

  • 1 egg

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions

  • 1 tsp pickled ginger (optional)

  • Takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat a takoyaki pan and brush with oil.

  2. In a bowl, mix flour, egg, water, and soy sauce to make the batter.

  3. Pour batter into each takoyaki mold and add a piece of baby octopus, green onions, and ginger.

  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning the balls to cook evenly until golden brown.

  5. Serve hot, topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed.

Tip: Takoyaki balls are perfect as a fun snack for kids or a party appetiser.

Quick Tips for Cooking Baby Octopus

  • Avoid overcooking: Baby octopus cooks fast; overcooking makes it rubbery.

  • Tenderising: A quick boil or marinating in lemon juice or vinegar helps keep it tender.

  • Pairing: Baby octopus pairs well with garlic, lemon, chilli, herbs, and fresh greens.

Cooking baby octopus doesn’t have to be intimidating. With these quick baby octopus recipes, including fun takoyaki balls, you can enjoy tender, flavorful seafood in under 30 minutes. Whether you prefer it grilled, stir-fried, marinated, or as playful takoyaki, baby octopus is a fun and versatile ingredient that’s perfect for any occasion.

Start experimenting tonight and discover your favourite quick baby octopus recipe!

M

Login with Email

Create a New Account