Next time its taco Tuesday at your house, try these octopus tacos or as the locals would call them, Tako Tacos. Most people in Hawaii associate Tako (Japanese for octopus) with poke. But if you really consider yourself a food adventurer, your next taco needs to be a Tako Taco!

Native Hawaiians believe that past ancestors take on life forms found in nature. A common physical embodiment of an ancestor or aumakua, is an Octopus. The Hawaiian name for octopus is Heʻe. Hawaiians believe the the heʻe are good luck and is associated with the ancient god, Kanoloa.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds fresh octopus — (baby, medium or large)
• Olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves — roughly chopped
• Juice from 1 lemon
• Pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
• Tortilla and toppings of your choice!

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large, deep pot, bring water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the octopus.
2. Keep the flame on medium and let it boil for 40 minutes.
3. Once boiled, let it rest at room temperature for 30 mins.
4. While its resting, you may season it with the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, dried oregano, fresh parsley, and garlic.
5. Cut the tentacles and grill the octopus till it gets a nice char over medium-high heat for 3 – 4 mins per side.
6. Once the octopus cools down, cut it up into about 1-2-inch pieces.
7. Grill your favorite tortillas and serve with your favorite salsa, fresh cilantro, and a few lime wedges.