Making traditional Spanish paella is a delightful culinary experience that brings the flavors of Spain to your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious homemade paella:

Ingredients:

– 2 cups of Spanish short-grain rice (such as Bomba or Calasparra rice)

– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 pound of chicken (cut into pieces) or mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, and squid)

– 1 onion (finely chopped)

– 2 cloves of garlic (minced)

– 1 red bell pepper (diced)

– 1 tomato (diced)

– 1 cup of green beans (cut into bite-sized pieces)

– 1 cup of peas

– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

– A pinch of saffron threads (optional)

– 1/4 cup of olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large paella pan (or a wide, shallow skillet), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken (if using) and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
  2. In the same pan, add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften. Then add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
  3. Add the diced tomato and cook until it breaks down and forms a sauce-like consistency.
  4. Stir in the rice, green beans, peas, and smoked paprika, combining everything well. Toast the rice for a minute or two.
  5. Add the chicken broth to the pan, along with the saffron threads (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, avoid stirring the rice. Instead, gently shake the pan occasionally to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
  7. If using mixed seafood, add it to the pan after about 10 minutes of cooking. Nestle the seafood into the rice.
  8. Once the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, turn off the heat and let the paella rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
  9. Serve the paella directly from the pan, garnished with lemon wedges. Traditionally, paella is enjoyed family-style, with everyone being able to pick their favorite parts.

Enjoy your homemade traditional Spanish paella with family and friends, savoring the authentic flavors and the communal experience it brings! ¡Buen provecho!

By Duke