Javier is a Basque born, trained chef and hospitality professional, owner of Basco Fine Foods, a Spanish food and drink importer based in Yorkshire. He regularly runs client food and drink events around the country and he is a course tutor at Hartingtons of Bakewell cookery school. Javier’s passion lies on bringing quality Spanish ingredients and recipes to as many people as possible.
Twitter: @bascofinefoods
Instagram: @mrbasco
Hola! My name is Javier De La Hormaza, a Basque born, adopted Yorkshire man, trained chef but lifetime cook, lover of food without gels or froths, hospitality professional turned food importer. Hope you enjoy my blog!
3 January 2023
26 November 2022
23 July 2022
Tel: 01937 845 767
Email: info@bascofinefoods.com
Unit 427C Birch Park
Thorp Arch Estate
Wetherby, West Yorkshire
LS23 7FG
Pulpo a la Gallega or Pulpo a Feira (Galician name meaning ‘fair style octopus) is a traditional dish from the region of Galicia. It is the main dish during the patron saint festivities of the city of Lugo. Cooking fresh octopus is not such a daunting process, the key to it, is to get the right timing on the cooking of the octopus, so you don’t end up with the octopus being too tough or too soft. Fresh octopus needs to be tenderised before cooking by pounding it heavily to avoid the dish becoming rubbery. Traditionally, this is done by hitting the octopus against a wall or stone. At home, you don’t need to do this…freezing the octopus helps the meat tenderise. Traditionally, pulpo is cooked in a copper cauldron, allowing 12 minutes per 1kg of octopus. Pulpo a la gallega tends to be paired well with a young red wine, ideally slightly chilled.