Braised octopus in coconut water with a chewy, sweet, and flavorful twist

How to prepare Braised Octopus in Coconut Water

• 1

  Prepare the ingredients

  Buy octopus and clean it under running water, using your hands to rub all over the octopus, especially the tentacles, to remove some of the slimy substance.

  Then use a knife to cut off the eyes of the octopus.

  Next, turn the inside of the octopus pouch out, thoroughly remove the intestines and the black pouch, and rinse briefly if the ink pouch is broken.

  After cleaning the intestines, rub salt all over the body and tentacles of the octopus.

  Finally, rinse again with clean water and let it drain.

  Tip:

  • Make sure to rub the body of the octopus very well from the inside out, especially the tentacles.
  • The octopus will release a lot of white foam when rubbed with salt, which is the slimy substance of the octopus; continue rubbing until you feel the octopus is no longer slimy.
  • You can cut off or keep the octopus’s beak since many people still eat this part.

  

  

  
• 2

  Make the sauce

  Make the sauce by mixing together the ingredients including: 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1.5 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of monosodium glutamate, and 1 tablespoon of salt.

  
• 3

  Octopus braised with coconut water

  Place the cleaned octopus into the pot.

  Add 4 smashed shallots, 3 smashed garlic cloves, 3 clusters of green pepper, and 3 chili peppers along with the prepared sauce.

  Pour in 1 coconut so that the water covers the surface of the octopus.

  Cook for 30 minutes on low heat or until the water has reduced, then turn off the heat.

  

  

  
• 4

  Final Product

  The octopus has a beautiful brown color, is extremely flavorful, naturally sweet, and has a slight chewiness from the fresh seafood. This is a delicious dish perfect for your weekend dinner!

  When serving, remember to cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces. Braised octopus with coconut water goes well with white rice or noodles.