When in Galicia, one has to try the Pulpo á feira. This octopus dish is very popular in this area and is especially good because of the local ingredients. We tried it at El Papatorio in Santiago de Compostela, and we had a great experience.
Quick facts about Pulpo á feira
- Also known as: Spanish Octopus, fair-style octopus or Pulpo a la Gallega
- Definition: Pulpo á feira is a Spanish tapa made with octopus, usually boiled, served hot, and known for its smooth texture.
- Where we ate it: El Papatorio, Santiago de Compostela
- Context: Galicia is famous for seafood, and octopus is one of the local favorites. Pulpo á feira was born at the fairs where merchants would bring octopus, boil it until tender, and then cut it into thick slices, using scissors. Those are added to a wooden plate, served with boiled potatoes and sprinkled with paprika. Most locals eat this with a toothpick, not with a fork.
- Served: hot
- Texture: tender
- Flavour: a subtle hint of the sea
- Pronunciation: POOL-poh ah FAY-rah
- One-line verdict: A favourite in Santiago de Compostela, perfect for seafood lovers and people who want to try the local dish.
Why it’s worth ordering
You should get the Pulpo á feira if you want to try a star dish of the region, and if you want to try octopus cooked in a different style. At El Papatorio in Santiago de Compostela, this dish is prepared very well, keeping the texture of the octopus while still being soft.
Taste and texture
The Pulpo á feira at El Papatorio in Santiago de Compostela comes with cut octopus legs, boiled potatoes, and a sprinkle of pimenton (paprika). The octopus has a clean, fresh flavour, with only a subtle hint of the sea; the potatoes are cooked well and make a perfect pairing, and the pimenton (paprika) adds a smoky flavour to the entire dish.
How to order it
Simply enough, when the waiter comes, ask: “El Pulpo á feira, por favor”. Remember that this is a dish to share, so you shouldn’t order a plate for each person at the table.
Quick decision guide
You’ll like it if: you like seafood and especially octopus.
Frequently asked questions
These are potatoes, and the name is in gallego – the language spoken in Galicia besides Castellano.
There is no difference; they mean the same thing. “Pulpo á feira’ is in Gallego, and “Pulpo a la Gallega” is in Castellano.
