Spicy Stir-Fried Baby Octopus (Jjukkumi Bokkeum)
Spicy Stir-Fried Baby Octopus (Jjukkumi Bokkeum)
Always a Winner! Quick and Easy Spicy Baby Octopus Stir-Fry
Introducing the ultimate Korean comfort food: a delightfully spicy, sweet, and chewy stir-fried baby octopus! This recipe uses pre-seasoned baby octopus, making it incredibly simple and fast to prepare. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special side dish. The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a hit with the whole family, serving beautifully as a side dish for rice or as a delightful appetizer with drinks!
Main Ingredients- 800g Pre-seasoned Baby Octopus (adjust spiciness to your preference)
- 1/2 Large Leek (cut into large pieces)
- 1 Onion (sliced into strips)
- 200g Bean Sprouts (washed thoroughly)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the large-cut leeks and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, to create a flavorful leek oil. This step is crucial for building a good base aroma.
Step 2
Once the leek oil is fragrant, add the sliced onions to the pan and stir-fry them together. Cook until the onions become translucent and slightly sweet. Keep the heat at medium and stir to prevent sticking.
Step 3
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: the seasoned baby octopus. (If you find the pre-seasoned octopus too salty or spicy, you can lightly rinse it under running water or use less seasoning. However, I personally enjoy the full flavor of the seasoning as is! 😊)
Step 4
Add the baby octopus and stir-fry over high heat. Cooking over high heat for a short time is key to keeping the octopus tender and chewy. Once all ingredients are well combined and the sauce has slightly thickened, turn off the heat and drizzle with a touch of sesame oil for an extra layer of nutty aroma. Enjoy!
