Octopus

Octopus is a marine cephalopod with a rounded mantle, eight arms lined with suction cups, and firm, pale flesh. Its flesh becomes tender and mildly sweet when simmered; a hard sear or grill adds a smoky, charred edge but can toughen if rushed. Cooks often simmer or pressure-cook before grilling, searing, or slicing for salads and stews. It is sold whole or as tentacles, fresh, thawed, or pre-cooked frozen.

It is a longstanding staple across Mediterranean and East Asian cuisines, notably in Greece, Spain, Portugal, Japan, and Korea. Most supply is wild-caught worldwide, with freezing commonly used to tenderize and extend distribution.