2 lb Octopus, skinned 2 md Onions, finely chopped 1 c Garlic, finely chopped 1 Bay leaf 1 pn Oregano, dry 1/2 ts Fines herbes 1 c Wine, dry white Butter 2 tb Tomato paste 16 oz Tomato, whole, can 2 c Rice Pound the octopus in order to tenderize it, and cut into cubes. Saute the onions in1/4 lb butter until golden brown; add garlic, bay leaf, oregano, fines herbes, and octopus. Saute for a few more minutes; then add tomato paste, whole tomatoes and wine. Stir well, cover and simmer over low fire for one hour, or until octopus is tender. When octopus is cooked, place 3-1/2 cups water,1/2 cup of octopus sauce and 2 Tbsp butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, add rice, stir, lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes. To serve, shape the rice into individual mounds with a cup, and cover with octopus and remaining sauce. This may be prepared ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving. It's delicious with boiled greens and white retsina.