Mediterranean👨‍🍳 Masterchef

Spicy Papaya and Octopus Salad with Balsamic Glaze

1h 40mtotal
Prep: 40 min
Cook: 1h
3servings
Spicy Papaya and Octopus Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Tenderized octopus paired with compressed papaya and a reduction of aged balsamic vinegar.

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Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg Large Mediterranean Octopus
  • 1 large Ripe Papaya
  • 250 ml Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
  • 2 pieces Bird's Eye Chili
  • 100 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Maldon Sea Salt
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Cilantro Micro-greens
  • 1 tablespoon Black Peppercorns
  • 3 pieces Bay Leaves
  • 4 cloves Clove Garlic

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place the octopus in a dry pot over low heat with garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns; allow it to simmer in its own juices for 45-60 minutes until tender.

  2. 2

    While the octopus cooks, simmer the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until reduced by two-thirds into a thick, syrupy glaze.

  3. 3

    Peel and slice the papaya into uniform 1-inch cubes, then place them in a vacuum sealer bag with a splash of lime juice and compress at high pressure to intensify the flavor and texture.

  4. 4

    Once the octopus is tender, remove it from the pot, separate the tentacles, and chill them immediately in an ice bath to firm the skin.

  5. 5

    Whisk together the olive oil, finely minced bird's eye chilies, lime juice, and sea salt to create a vibrant spicy vinaigrette.

  6. 6

    Char the octopus tentacles on an extremely hot grill or cast-iron skillet for 2 minutes per side until the suckers are crispy and caramelized.

  7. 7

    Slice the charred octopus into medallions and toss gently with the compressed papaya cubes and half of the spicy vinaigrette.

  8. 8

    Plate the salad using a ring mold, drizzle with the balsamic reduction, and garnish with cilantro micro-greens and a final pinch of sea salt.

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