Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. cooked octopus, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add sliced octopus and toss to coat.
3. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side or until lightly charred.
4. Warm tortillas on the grill for 10-15 seconds per side.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled octopus on each tortilla. Top with cilantro, red onion, pineapple, and queso fresco.
6. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 6 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill or grill pan set to medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 19g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cooked shrimp or grilled chicken can be substituted for octopus
- Feta cheese can be substituted for queso fresco
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado or guacamole to the tacos
- Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas
- Serve with a side of black beans and rice
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pat the octopus dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture on the grill
- Don't overcook the octopus as it can become tough and rubbery
- Warm tortillas on the grill for added flavor and texture
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover octopus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat octopus in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve tacos on a platter with lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro on top
Garnishes:
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or a margarita
Suggested side dishes:
- Black beans and rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the octopus is sticking to the grill, make sure it is well-coated in oil before grilling
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook octopus to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat
Food history:
- Tako tacos are a popular street food in Mexico and are often made with grilled octopus or squid
Flavor profiles:
- Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet with a hint of citrus from the lime
Serving suggestions:
- Serve tacos with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal
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Region: Mexican