Spanish Paella
Spanish Paella is a vibrant and flavorful rice dish originating from Spain, typically cooked with a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, and aromatic spices. This classic dish is known for its rich saffron-infused rice and delicious combination of ingredients, making it a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions.
- 2 cups paella rice (Bomba or Calasparra rice)
- 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 lb Spanish chorizo, sliced
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 tsp saffron thread
- 1 tsp smoked paprik
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and chorizo slices, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Saute the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.
Stir in the diced tomato and cook until it starts to break down and release its juices.
Add the rice to the pan and cook for a few minutes until it becomes translucent.
Meanwhile, heat the chicken or seafood broth in a separate pot. Dissolve the saffron threads in a small amount of warm broth.
Pour the saffron-infused broth into the paella pan, along with the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Arrange the chicken pieces, chorizo slices, shrimp, mussels, and frozen peas evenly over the rice in the pan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the paella is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish the paella with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this classic Spanish dish with family and friends!
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Feel free to customize your paella by adding other seafood such as clams, squid, or lobster.
- Traditional Spanish paella is cooked over an open flame, but you can also use a large skillet or paella pan on the stovetop.
- For extra flavor, you can use homemade chicken or seafood broth instead of store-bought broth.