Step 1

Famous as a stamina-boosting food, octopus is rich in protein, phosphorus, iron, and various vitamins, making it particularly effective in preventing anemia. It’s also an excellent food for growing children due to its high DHA content, which is crucial for brain development. The abundant amino acids in octopus help strengthen liver function, making it a perfect remedy for husbands suffering from hangovers and chronic fatigue due to late nights and frequent work dinners.

And did you know it’s packed with taurine? Taurine is known for its benefits in cholesterol regulation, so you can enjoy octopus without worrying too much about your cholesterol levels!

Step 2

Look at this beauty, fresh from the waters of Mokpo City! This live octopus looks both sexy and a little intimidating. But soon, it will be transformed into a delicious meal, so I’m giving it a moment of appreciation.

Step 3

Doesn’t it just scream freshness? This live octopus is so full of life, wriggling and moving! It reminds me of the old saying, ‘Even a dying cow can be revived with a single bite of live octopus.’ This is truly the king of stamina foods!

Step 4

The first step to perfectly clean octopus is to ‘scrub it well with coarse salt.’ Generously sprinkle coarse salt all over the octopus and rub it vigorously with your hands. This process effectively removes any slime and impurities attached to the suckers. After rubbing, rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to clean every nook and cranny, especially the suckers.

Step 5

Are you worried the octopus might become limp after such a vigorous cleaning? Not at all! In fact, cleaning it this thoroughly ensures you’ll enjoy the pure, clean taste of octopus without any off-flavors. Get ready for a refreshed-looking octopus!

Step 6

Now it’s time to ‘briefly blanch’ the octopus for the most delicious result. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the prepared octopus and blanch it for just about 1 minute. Overcooking will make it tough, so timing is key.

Step 7

See how plump and tender it is after being blanched briefly over high heat? It retains its delightful chewy texture while remaining tender, creating a truly satisfying bite. Avoid overcooking, as it will lose its characteristic chewiness and become tough. Stick to that 1-minute mark!

Step 8

Let’s prepare some delicious accompaniments that pair perfectly with our blanched octopus! A sweet, sour, and spicy gochujang (red chili paste) sauce, a savory sesame oil and salt dip, and some thinly sliced onions will make your meal even more delightful. Prepare your favorite condiments.

Step 9

Doesn’t this look incredibly generous and appetizing? The combination of fresh octopus and various dipping sauces is enough to make your mouth water just by looking at it.

Step 10

The octopus head may take a slightly different amount of time to cook compared to the body. You can separate the head and cook it a little longer, or detach it and use it to make a delicious and flavorful octopus stew or soup. The head, with its internal organs, can add a richer flavor to broths.

Step 11

Now, dip your perfectly blanched octopus into the gochujang or sesame oil and salt dip, or enjoy it plain to savor the fresh, natural taste of the octopus. I hope you enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with octopus tonight! Enjoy your meal!