Some sailors’ stories tell that dried octopus began to dry on ships and that it was consumed as a substitute for tobacco for the sailors who spent so many hours at sea.
The image of octopuses drying in the sun, as if they were clothes, is one of the most typical images of Dénia and that, in the past it was seen in a habitual way. Nowadays it can only be seen in certain restaurants on the coast of Dénia. Drying the octopus with the sun and the sea breeze is an art that requires care and specific conditions that occur in certain months of the year, always controlling that the humidity is not excessive.
The most important thing about this dish is to wash the octopus well before leaving it to dry, as it is necessary to remove all traces of sand/soil that the octopus may have. It is laid out in the sun and collected at dusk so that it does not get damp. Once dry the legs are toasted in the fire (it is cooked directly to the flame) or in an iron plate until they are well browned. It is cut into thin slices and seasoned with a good olive oil. This dish is recommended to be eaten hot as it is much tastier.
