International > Latin American > Brazilian

Brazilian Caldeirada de Polvo Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs octopus
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 cup fish stock
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Clean the octopus by removing the head and beak, and rinsing it thoroughly.
2. Cut the octopus into small pieces and set aside.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper, and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add the octopus pieces to the pot, and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Pour in the white wine and fish stock, and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing, boiling, and simmering.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 30g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Squid or cuttlefish can be used instead of octopus.
- Red or yellow bell pepper can be used instead of green bell pepper.
- Chicken or vegetable stock can be used instead of fish stock.

Variations:
- Add potatoes or sweet potatoes to the pot for a heartier meal.
- Use coconut milk instead of fish stock for a creamier version of the dish.
- Add other seafood such as shrimp or mussels to the pot for a seafood medley.

Tips and tricks:
- To tenderize the octopus, freeze it for a few hours before cooking.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the pot, as metal utensils can react with the acidic ingredients.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls, garnished with chopped parsley and a slice of lemon.

Garnishes:
Chopped parsley, lemon wedges.

Pairings:
- White wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Crusty bread or rice.

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the octopus is tough, cook it for a longer period of time until it becomes tender.
- If the broth is too thin, simmer the pot uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to clean the octopus thoroughly before cooking.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
Caldeirada de Polvo is a traditional seafood stew from Portugal, which was introduced to Brazil during the colonial period.

Flavor profiles:
This dish has a savory and slightly tangy flavor, with a hint of sweetness from the bell pepper.

Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of white wine and crusty bread for a complete meal.

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Region: Brazilian

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Herby, Tangy, Garlicky