Mediterranean Octopus is Arriving in UK Waters. Why That's Great News for Seafood Lovers

For years, octopus has been a prized ingredient across Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece, where it is celebrated for its incredible flavour and versatility. Now, with greater availability here in the UK, there's never been a better time to discover why this remarkable seafood deserves a place on your dinner table.

A Sustainable Choice

One of the biggest advantages of enjoying octopus right now is its sustainability. As populations have increased in UK waters, it has become a more abundant species. Choosing plentiful, responsibly sourced seafood helps reduce pressure on species that are under greater fishing pressure while supporting our local fishing industry.

At The Seafood Deli Kitchen, we believe in encouraging people to explore sustainable seafood choices. Mediterranean octopus is not only an environmentally responsible option at present, but it is also one of the most rewarding ingredients to cook.

Why Eat Octopus?

When cooked properly, octopus is wonderfully tender with a rich, slightly sweet flavour that works beautifully in everything from salads and pasta dishes to tacos, curries and barbecue dishes.

It's also packed with nutritional benefits. Octopus is:

• High in lean protein, helping support muscle growth and repair.
• Naturally low in fat.
• Rich in vitamin B12, which supports healthy nerves and red blood cell production.
• A good source of iron, helping carry oxygen around the body.
• High in selenium, an important antioxidant that supports the immune system.
• Rich in copper, phosphorus and potassium, which contribute to healthy bones, energy production and normal muscle function.
• A natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.

It's a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, satisfying meal without compromising on flavour.

Our Favourite Slow Braised Octopus

The secret to beautiful octopus is patience. Long, gentle cooking transforms it into something incredibly tender.

Ingredients

• 1 whole octopus, cleaned
• Half a bottle of red wine (cooking wine is absolutely fine)
• Onion, Celery & Red pepper
• 2-3 bay leaves
• Half a lemon, squeezed, then add the rind
• A few sprigs of fresh thyme
• A handful of fresh parsley

Method

Bring a large pan of water to the boil.

Add the red wine, bay leaf, squeezed lemon and rind, thyme and parsley.

Bring everything back to a gentle boil before slowly lowering the octopus into the pan.

Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3½ to 4 hours.

Carefully remove the octopus from the cooking liquor and allow it to cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

From here, the possibilities are endless. Serve it warm with roasted potatoes, char it on the barbecue, toss it through pasta, add it to salads or simply finish it with good olive oil, garlic and fresh herbs.

Give Octopus a Try

If you've never cooked octopus before, don't be intimidated. It's far easier than many people think, and the results are truly spectacular.

With Mediterranean octopus becoming increasingly available in southern UK waters, now is the perfect opportunity to discover this delicious, nutritious and sustainable seafood for yourself.

At Seafood Deli.Kitchen, we're passionate about helping people discover seafood beyond the familiar. If you spot octopus on our counter, don't be afraid to give it a go. We'd love to help you choose one and share even more ideas for cooking it at home.