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Spanish Paella

Spanish Paella is a traditional and iconic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries in Spain. This flavorful and colorful dish is a staple in Spanish cuisine and is often enjoyed as a communal meal with family and friends. Paella is a symbol of Spanish culture and is a dish that represents the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Prep Time:

45 mins

Cook Time:

45 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 30 mins

Servings:

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

4 ounces Spanish chorizo, casing discarded and cut into 1/4-inch dice

2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1-inch cubes

1 (12 ounce) package uncooked Arborio rice

5 cups chicken broth

½ cup white wine

1 sprig fresh thyme

1 pinch saffron

salt to taste

ground black pepper to taste

2 squid, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces

2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

½ cup frozen green peas

12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 pound mussels, cleaned and debearded

¼ cup chopped Italian flat leaf parsley

8 slices lemon, for garnish

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in paella pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and pepper; cook and stir for a few minutes. Add chorizo sausage, diced chicken, and rice; cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in 3 ½ cups stock, wine, thyme leaves, and saffron. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to the boil, and simmer for 15 minutes; stir occasionally.

Step 2

Taste the rice, and check to see if it is cooked. If the rice is uncooked, stir in ½ cup more stock. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally. Stir in additional stock if necessary: use up to 2 cups additional stock, 5 cups total. Cook until rice is done.

Step 3

Stir in squid, tomatoes, and peas. Cook for 2 minutes. Arrange prawns and mussels on top. Cover with foil, and leave for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4

Remove the foil, and scatter parsley over the food. Serve in paella pan, garnished with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

524

Calories

18g

Fat

57g

Carbs

29g

Protein

Complement

The origins of Paella can be traced back to the Valencia region of Spain, where it was originally prepared by farmers and farm laborers. The dish was made with simple and readily available ingredients such as rice, vegetables, and meat, often including rabbit, chicken, and snails. Over time, the dish evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as seafood and sausage, reflecting the diverse culinary influences in Spanish cuisine. Today, Paella is enjoyed in various forms throughout Spain and has become a popular dish in many parts of the world. Its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and aromatic spices make it a true delight for the senses, and a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine.