Wild-caught octopus sourced from Malaysia, sold fresh at the Costco seafood counter and priced per pound. Previously frozen to ensure freshness and food safety during transport, this whole octopus is thawed and ready for home preparation.

Octopus is a versatile seafood prized in Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin cuisines. It can be braised low and slow until tender, grilled over high heat for charred tentacles, or simmered in stews and curries. Before cooking, the whole octopus typically requires cleaning — removing the beak and ink sac — and tenderizing, either by freezing (already done here), slow simmering, or pounding. Cooking low and slow in salted water or broth for 45–90 minutes produces tender, flavorful meat ideal for slicing and finishing on a grill or in a hot pan with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika.