Greek Octopus Stew With Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, savory flavors from caramelized onions and tomato paste that meld beautifully with the wine.
• Tender octopus, slow-cooked for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Rustic and satisfying, with hearty potatoes absorbing all the delicious juices.
• Elegant yet simple, ideal for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1. 1.5 – 2 kg (3.3 – 4.4 lbs) octopus
2. 800 g (1.7 lbs) potatoes, peeled and cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces
3. 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
4. ⅔ tablespoon tomato paste
5. 150 ml sweet red wine
6. ½ teaspoon ground pepper
7. 1 bay leaf
8. 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
9. Freshly ground pepper to serve

Directions

1. Clean the octopus well, removing any beak and innards, then rinse under cold water.
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly until it darkens slightly, enhancing its flavor.
4. Add the octopus to the pot, stirring to coat it in the onion tomato mixture.
5. Pour in the sweet red wine and add the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook slowly until the octopus is tender usually about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on its size.
6. Once the octopus is nearly tender, add the potato chunks and the ½ teaspoon ground pepper. Stir gently to incorporate.
7. Continue cooking, covered, until the potatoes are soft and the stew is thickened another 20–30 minutes.
8. Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf.
9. Serve hot, with a sprinkling of freshly ground pepper over each portion.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Serves approximately 6 people.
• Prep time: 20 minutes (cleaning and chopping).
• Cook time: 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes (octopus + potato cooking).
• Total time: About 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the stew cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2–3 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or wine if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid high heat to preserve the texture of the octopus and potatoes.

FAQs

What type of octopus is best for this stew?

Use fresh or previously frozen common octopus its texture holds up well during slow cooking.

Do I need to tenderize the octopus separately?

No, slow simmering in the stew will naturally tenderize the octopus no extra steps required.

Can I use white wine instead of red?

Yes, a sweet or semi-dry white wine works too but red adds richer color and flavor.

Are there substitutions for tomato paste?

You can use a small amount of tomato purée, but tomato paste gives the stew its signature depth and color.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely carrots or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and color, though traditional versions stay simple.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mildly seasoned. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or ground chili if you prefer heat.

What side dishes pair well with this stew?

Crisp green salad, crusty bread, or steamed greens like chard or spinach are excellent complements.

Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?

Yes, flavors often deepen after resting just reheat gently before serving.

How do I know when the octopus is done?

When the tentacles are tender and easily pierced with a fork it should feel buttery, not rubbery.

Does the olive oil measurement matter a lot?

Extra virgin olive oil contributes richness while exact precision isn’t critical, using the full amount delivers the best flavor.

Conclusion

This Greek octopus stew with potatoes is a nourishing, flavorful dish that beautifully balances rustic charm with refined Mediterranean character. The interplay of tender octopus, hearty potatoes, sweet wine, and savory aromatics makes it a standout for both everyday meals and special occasions. With a little time and patience, you’ll be rewarded with a soul-warming masterpiece that’s sure to impress.

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