Paella

why make this recipe

Paella is a delicious Spanish dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. It combines rice, seafood, and chicken in a colorful and flavorful way. Making paella is not only a fun cooking experience, but it also allows you to serve up a meal that friends and family will love. With its vibrant colors and enjoyable flavors, paella is perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

how to make Paella

Ingredients:

• Olive oil (2 tbsp)
• Onion (1, chopped)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Red bell pepper (1, sliced)
• Tomatoes (2, chopped)
• Saffron threads (a pinch)
• Chicken broth (4 cups)
• Arborio rice (2 cups)
• Chicken thighs (4, cut into pieces)
• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined)
• Mussels (1 lb, cleaned)
• Peas (1 cup)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until they become soft.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and saffron. Cook for 5 minutes while stirring.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
5. Stir in the Arborio rice, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the chicken, shrimp, and mussels. Cook until the rice is tender and the seafood is fully cooked.
7. Stir in the peas and garnish with lemon wedges before serving.

how to serve Paella

To serve paella, place it directly from the pan onto the table. This makes it look impressive and invites everyone to dig in. You can serve it with lemon wedges on the side to add a fresh, zesty flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

how to store Paella

If you have leftovers, you can store paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it may change the texture of the seafood and rice.

tips to make Paella

• Use a wide pan to give the rice enough space to cook evenly.
• Don’t stir the rice once you add the broth, as this helps create a nice crust at the bottom.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like green beans or artichokes, for added flavor and nutrition.
• If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick.

variation

You can customize your paella by using different proteins like chorizo, or even making a vegetarian version with only vegetables and vegetable broth.

FAQs

Can I make paella without saffron?
Yes, if you don’t have saffron, you can use turmeric for color and a slightly different flavor.

Can I use other types of rice?
While Arborio rice is commonly used, you can also use Bomba or Calasparra rice, which are traditional options for paella.

Is paella meant to be a one-pan dish?
Yes, paella is traditionally made in one pan, making it easy to serve and clean up afterward.