Baked Octopus Legs with Italian White Sauce Recipe

Baked Octopus Legs with Italian White Sauce Recipe

• 5g green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 2 large octopus legs, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or almonds, for garnish

1. Prepare the Green Tea Rubs:
   • Combine the green tea leaves, sugar, and spices in a small bowl to create the green tea rubs. This mixture will be used to season the octopus legs.
2. Season the Octopus Legs:
   • Pat the octopus legs dry with paper towels. Rub the green tea rubs all over the octopus legs, pressing the rubs into the flesh to ensure they adhere well.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
   • Stir in the chicken broth, white wine (if using), and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the seasoned octopus legs to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the octopus legs evenly with the sauce.
7. Bake the Octopus Legs:
   • Transfer the octopus legs and sauce to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the octopus legs are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the baked octopus legs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. If desired, add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra texture.
9. Serve Immediately:
   • Serve the Baked Octopus Legs with Italian White Sauce immediately, enjoying the tender octopus with the rich, creamy sauce and the subtle hint of green tea from the rubs.