When it comes to delightful dishes soaked in lemongrass, the first thing that comes to mind is undoubtedly lemongrass-soaked chicken feet, a dish that has been making waves in the culinary world. However, today, let's switch to a different ingredient - octopus - and discover that this dish is equally exceptional.
Octopus, tender and infused with lemongrass, carries a rich blend of flavors. The refreshing aroma of lemongrass is enough to captivate the senses, making this dish a delightful experience for any food enthusiast. Let's prepare lemongrass-infused octopus right away.
Ingredients for Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
- Fresh octopus 1kg
- Seven kumquats
- Six lemongrass stalks
- Five fresh chili peppers, 2 ginger roots
- Seasonings: quality fish sauce, sugar

Ingredients for Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
Steps to Make Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Purchase fresh octopus, preferably small, about the size of half a palm, for a perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness. After buying, clean it thoroughly, then rub with salt, ginger, or lime juice, squeezing firmly to remove any fishy smell. Cut each octopus into 2-3 portions for a richer flavor during marination.
- Crush lemongrass and slice it into pieces, thinly slice fresh chili peppers. Peel and crush garlic, clean ginger, and slice it into thin pieces.

Preparation of Ingredients for Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
Step 2: Make crispy lemongrass-infused octopus
- After draining, boil the octopus in 500ml water with some lemongrass and ginger to enhance its aroma. Cook until the octopus meat becomes firm, then turn off the heat.
- Place the boiled octopus in a bowl of boiling water to cool, then add some ice to make the octopus meat whiter and more deliciously crispy. Soak until the octopus meat becomes firm and evenly cool, then transfer it to a draining tray.
- Prepare the dipping sauce for lemongrass-infused octopus with the following ingredients: 1/2 tablespoon salt, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper, 1 egg yolk, juice from 3 kumquats. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to dissolve. Heat the mixture in a double boiler until it thickens, then turn off the heat. Cut 1 chili pepper, thinly slice the kumquat peel, add some shredded lime leaves, and a pinch of black pepper to the sauce. Mix the sauce well once again.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce for Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
- Prepare a large bowl with 250g sugar, 150ml quality fish sauce, and 250ml filtered water. Stir well to dissolve the spices, then transfer to a pot and let it cool. Once the mixture is cool, add juice from 6 kumquats and adjust the seasoning to taste. Thinly slice additional kumquats to enhance the fragrance. Add sliced ginger, lemongrass chunks, and thinly sliced fresh chili peppers. Mix well, then add the octopus to marinate. Seal the bowl with plastic wrap or use a tight lid, refrigerate for about 1 hour, then take it out and enjoy.

Soak octopus with lemongrass and kumquat
Finished dish: Lemongrass-infused octopus
Lemongrass-infused octopus boasts vibrant colors, a delightful aroma of lemongrass, and a sweet, savory sauce. The tender, sweet octopus soaked in flavorful sauce, combined with the aromatic kumquat and a hint of tangy tamarind, creates an irresistible dish.

Deliciously Crispy Lemongrass-Infused Octopus
Why hesitate when this incredibly simple method invites you to step into the kitchen!
