Fancypants: Where Worldly Flavors Meet Grilled Grace

Origins in the Globe: Fancypants and its Vibrant Grilled Spanish Octopus Symphony

Imagine the vibrant and eclectic culinary scene of Nashville, a city that embraces both its musical roots and a growing appreciation for globally-inspired flavors. The story of Fancypants in Nashville tells a tale of a restaurant where global influences meet Southern hospitality.

Fancypants isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of diverse culinary traditions, a place where the vibrant flavors of the world are presented with a modern and playful approach. The restaurant is known for its inventive menu, featuring dishes that draw inspiration from various cuisines. The ambiance is stylish yet approachable, a space where you can savor both familiar and unexpected flavor combinations.

During my visit, I had the distinct pleasure of experiencing their Grilled Spanish Octopus, a dish that perfectly embodies Fancypants’ approach. It wasn’t just a simple seafood preparation; it was a symphony of textures and flavors. The perfectly grilled octopus, with its tender texture and slightly smoky flavor, provided a wonderful base for the accompanying elements. The dish was a testament to Fancypants’ commitment to using high-quality ingredients and creative techniques.

Savoring that Grilled Spanish Octopus at Fancypants, I understood that Fancypants is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience the art of global cuisine in a modern and exciting way. It’s about respecting the quality of the ingredients while embracing innovation, and creating dishes that are both comforting and adventurous. Fancypants’ origin lies in the vision of its creators to establish a restaurant that brings a fresh, globally-inspired approach to Nashville, a city that appreciates culinary artistry and bold flavors. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtfully prepared food and its ability to create memorable dining experiences.

If you’re looking for a taste of innovative, globally-inspired cuisine in a stylish and inviting setting in Nashville, Fancypants is a destination that should be at the top of your list. It’s a place where you can enjoy delicious and inventive dishes, a true gem in Nashville’s diverse culinary landscape. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Fancypants promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the best of global flavors.

Bringing Global Grilling Home: Your Own Vibrant Grilled Octopus

To capture the vibrant, globally-inspired essence of Fancypants’ Grilled Spanish Octopus in your own kitchen, begin with the foundation of tender octopus and a thoughtful approach to grilling. This mirrors Fancypants’ dedication to crafting modern, flavorful dishes from around the world. Seek out fresh octopus, and consider preparing your own marinade or selecting a vibrant blend of spices as your canvas.

Assembling your own version of this contemporary dish is an exercise in gentle, mindful preparation. Focus on achieving a delicate balance of tender octopus and vibrant grilled flavors. Start by carefully preparing the octopus, ensuring it’s tenderized and ready for a quick sear. This careful process is crucial for capturing the succulent, flavorful octopus that Fancypants is known for.

Consider incorporating elements that reflect the spirit of Fancypants’ global approach. Select high-quality olive oil and fresh lemon, perhaps a blend with smoked paprika and oregano, to enhance the marinade. A gentle grilling, allowing the octopus to char slightly, will create a deeply flavorful base. A touch of fresh herbs will add a bright, aromatic note.

Pay close attention to the texture of the octopus, ensuring it is grilled to tender perfection and served immediately. Gently arrange the grilled octopus, grilled vegetables, and other garnishes to create a visually appealing and flavorful plate. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon will bring the dish to life.

While recreating the exact taste of Fancypants is a subtle art, the act of curating your own version cultivates a deeper appreciation for the complexity and artistry of their approach. It’s a reminder that culinary excellence, whether enjoyed at a beloved restaurant like Fancypants or crafted in your own kitchen, is a celebration of quality ingredients, mindful technique, and the pure joy of creating something comforting and delicious.

Chef’s Notes: Grilled Braised Octopus

• Room Temperature Ingredients – Always let the chicken and butter come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking and smooth spreading of the butter mixture.
• Use Preserved Lemon Wisely – The rind is the star here; discard the pulp to avoid bitterness and finely chop the rind so it melts into the butter without overpowering.
• Lift the Skin Gently – When applying the garlic-citrus butter, gently separate the skin without tearing it. Rubbing butter underneath boosts flavor and keeps the meat moist.
• Vegetable Bed Magic – The onions, carrots, and celery under the chicken not only enhance the aroma but also caramelize beautifully and help create a rich, natural pan sauce.
• Rest Before Serving – A 10-minute rest after roasting is key to juicy slices and allows time to prepare the au jus from the drippings.
• Pan Juices Matter – Don’t skip straining the drippings—this silky sauce is full of concentrated flavor and takes the dish to gourmet status.
• Twine for Tidy Roasting – Tying the legs and tucking the wings isn’t just for looks—it ensures even cooking and prevents overexposed parts from burning.
• Garnish for Aroma and Color – Adding extra fresh herbs and lemon slices at the end brightens the final dish both visually and aromatically.
• Flavorful Leftovers – Leftover chicken is fantastic shredded into salads, wraps, or grain bowls. The flavor deepens overnight!
• Make It a Meal – Serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino for a well-rounded meal.

Grilled Braised Octopus

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Experience a culinary adventure with our Grilled Braised Octopus—a dish that marries gentle braising and a quick high‐heat sear for an unforgettable flavor profile. This recipe delivers smoky, citrus-kissed seafood with a touch of spice, perfect for dinner parties or an intimate date night at home. Simple yet sophisticated, its tender texture and vibrant sauce will captivate your taste buds and leave you excited for every bite.

Course: Main CourseCuisine: SpanishDifficulty: Easy

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Servings

4

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Resting Time

2

hours 

Total time

3

hours 

40

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• Aromatic Base

• 1 medium yellow onion roughly chopped into sizeable pieces

• 3 cloves garlic lightly smashed for a milder infusion

• 1 leaf bay leaf to impart an herbal note

• Seasoning Essentials

• 1.5 tsp smoky Spanish paprika for a deep, rustic flavor

• 1.5 tsp kosher salt to elevate the natural taste

• Culinary Liquids

• 1 tbsp olive oil to start the sauté

• 0.5 cup dry white wine to build a savory braising liquid

• Main Feature

• 1 lb Spanish octopus cleaned and prepped

• Searing Element

• 2 tbsp olive oil reserved for achieving a caramelized grill mark

• Finished Sauce Components

• 0.33 cup reserved braising broth transforms into a velvety sauce

• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright finish

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to enrich the sauce’s texture

• Salt as desired

• dash of cayenne pepper to add a subtle kick

• Alternative Ingredients

• Yellow Onion: Red onions can be used for a slightly sweeter taste.

• Garlic: Garlic powder may substitute fresh garlic if on hand though fresh is preferred.

• Bay Leaf: A pinch of dried thyme can mimic the herbal aroma if you’re out of bay leaves.

• Smoked Spanish Paprika: Regular paprika with a drop of liquid smoke offers a similar smokiness.

• Kosher Salt: Sea salt is an acceptable alternative for seasoning.

• Olive Oil: Avocado oil can be used for sautéing for a different flavor profile.

• White Wine: Chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon works in a pinch to deglaze.

• Spanish Octopus: Calamari may be used for a similar seafood texture though the taste will vary.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil sauce: Walnut oil can provide a unique twist if desired.

• Lemon Juice: Lime juice offers a comparable acidity with a slight variation in flavor.

Directions

• Initial Sauté – Begin by heating 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the roughly chopped yellow onion, lightly smashed garlic cloves, and the robust bay leaf. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to release their aromatic flavors.
• Building the Braise – Pour in ½ cup dry white wine to form the foundation of a rich braising liquid. Gently lower the 1 lb Spanish octopus into the pan, ensuring it soaks in the flavors. Cover the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes before turning the octopus over; then continue cooking for another 40–45 minutes until the flesh is tender and infused with aromatic spices.
• Cooling and Chilling – Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the octopus along with its braising liquid into a large bowl. Set the bowl atop an ice-water-filled container and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Once at room temperature, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours (or overnight) so that the flavors have ample time to meld.
• Final Sear and Sauce Preparation – After chilling, place the octopus on a clean work surface and gently pat dry with paper towels, discarding any excess braising broth and unwanted skin. Brush the pieces lightly with olive oil and preheat a grill or nonstick pan on high heat. Grill the octopus for 3–4 minutes on each side until you achieve a well-defined, charred sear. Meanwhile, bring the remaining braising liquid to a boil in a saucepan, strain to remove solids, and whisk in 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Slice the octopus diagonally into thick pieces, arrange them on a serving dish, and generously drizzle the freshly prepared sauce over the top before serving.

Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• Nonstick Pan
• Mixing Bowls

Notes

• For a flawlessly tender texture, avoid overcooking the octopus; a gentle braise followed by a quick, high-heat sear is key. Pair this dish with crusty roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad to enhance the Mediterranean vibe. Fresh Italian parsley, capers, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest can be added to the sauce for extra brightness. Enjoy this gourmet seafood delight as a standout centerpiece for any dinner party or a special night at home.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Potassium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 32g
• Vitamin A: 300IU
• Vitamin C: 12mg
• Calcium: 50mg
• Iron: 3mg

FAQs: Grilled Braised Octopus

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