What Does Octopus Taste Like?

The octopus (tako in Japanese) might not be a regular seafood delicacy on your dinner table, but maybe it should be.

The taste of octopus is not overly fishy like some seafood can be, but rather has a mild and slightly sweet flavor, similar to squid.

So, if you’re curious about what octopus tastes like in more detail and how it can elevate your cooking, join me as we discuss this incredible ingredient.

What Does Octopus Taste Like?

Raw octopus has a clean, briny flavor with a hint of sweetness. It’s a bit like the ocean itself but without the overwhelming saltiness. When it’s cooked, the flavor deepens and becomes more robust, yet still retains that subtle sweetness.

The texture of octopus is where things get really interesting.

When cooked properly, it has a tender, almost buttery texture. It’s not chewy or rubbery, as one might expect from its appearance. Instead, it’s pleasantly firm and satisfying to bite into. With their slight crunch, the tentacles provide a delightful contrast to the softer body.

Grilled octopus, a favorite in Mediterranean cuisine, takes on a slightly smoky flavor that complements its natural sweetness beautifully. The grilling process also gives it a delightful charred exterior, adding a bit of crunch to the otherwise tender meat.

On the other hand, baby octopus is more delicate in flavor and texture. It’s tender and slightly sweet, making it a fantastic addition to salads or pasta dishes.

Now, let’s talk about the different parts of the octopus. The head and the tentacles offer slightly different experiences.

• The head, or mantle, is softer and more delicate, with a milder flavor.
• The tentacles, however, are where you’ll find the most flavor. They’re slightly chewier but in a satisfying way, and they carry a stronger taste of the sea.

Types Of Edible Octopus

There are several varieties of octopus that are commonly used in cooking, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Common Octopus: This is the variety you’ll most likely encounter in a supermarket or restaurant. When cooked properly, it has a mild, sweet flavor and a tender texture.
• Giant Pacific Octopus: As the name suggests, this variety is larger than most. It has a slightly stronger flavor but still retains the characteristic sweetness of octopus.
• Vulgaris Octopus: Also known as the Mediterranean octopus, this variety is smaller than the Giant Pacific but is known for its tender meat and sweet, delicate flavor.
• Musky Octopus: This small variety is often used in Italian cuisine. It has a slightly more intense flavor compared to the common octopus and is particularly delicious when grilled.

What Does Octopus Compare With?

When it comes to comparing octopus with other foods, here are a few that come to mind:

• Squid or Calamari: These have similar textures. However, octopus has a sweeter flavor and a slightly firmer texture.
• Scallops: The sweet, delicate flavor of octopus is often compared to scallops. Both have a mild, sweet taste that pairs well with various flavors.
• Chicken: Some people compare the taste of octopus to chicken because of its mild flavor. However, an octopus has a unique sweetness and a hint of the sea that a chicken doesn’t have.
• Pork: The texture of octopus, especially when grilled, can be similar to pork. Both have a satisfying bite and can taste smoky when grilled.

Remember, the taste of octopus can vary depending on how it’s cooked and what it’s paired with.

How To Eat Octopus

There are countless ways to enjoy octopus. Here are some of the most popular methods.

Octopus Sushi

In the world of sushi, octopus, or “tako” as it’s known in Japanese, is a beloved ingredient. It’s often served as nigiri, with a thin slice of tender, boiled octopus gently pressed onto a mound of vinegared rice.

The octopus is usually scored in a crosshatch pattern, creating a beautiful presentation that’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The taste is mild and slightly sweet, providing a lovely contrast to the tangy rice.

Baby Octopus

Baby octopus, or “chuka iidako” in Japanese, is a delightful way to enjoy this seafood. These tiny octopuses are often boiled and then marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.

They’re served whole, making for a striking presentation. The taste is sweet and slightly tangy, with the sauce enhancing the natural flavor of the octopus.

Grilled Octopus

Grilling is a popular method of cooking octopus, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. The octopus is first boiled until tender, then grilled until it has a beautiful char. It’s often served with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor to the octopus, while the lemon adds a refreshing tanginess.

Octopus Stew

In many cultures, octopus is used in hearty stews. The octopus is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender, absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients in the stew. It’s a warming, comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. The octopus adds a unique flavor to the stew, making it a dish to remember.

Octopus Salad

Octopus salad is a light and refreshing way to enjoy this seafood. The octopus is boiled until tender, then mixed with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a vibrant dish, both in terms of flavor and presentation. The octopus adds a touch of the sea to the salad, creating a delightful contrast to the crisp vegetables.

Can You Eat Raw Octopus?

Eating raw octopus is not recommended due to potential health risks, including harmful bacteria and parasites. Cooking octopus not only makes it safer to eat but also enhances its flavor and texture, making it a delicious addition to various dishes.

While octopus is a common ingredient in sushi, it’s important to note that it’s not typically served raw.

Octopus is usually boiled before it’s used in sushi and salads, a process that tenderizes the meat and brings out its sweet flavor.

However, in Korea, a unique experience for the adventurous eater is in the form of a live octopus, or “sannakji.” This dish involves small octopuses, or sometimes just the tentacles of a larger one, that is served fresh and still moving.

It’s a dish that’s not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to try it, it offers a unique insight into Korea’s bold and diverse culinary culture.

So, while you might see octopus on the menu at your favorite sushi restaurant here in America, know that it’s most likely pre-cooked and is not truly raw. The taste is mild, slightly sweet, with a firm yet tender texture similar to calamari.

Octopus FAQs