Spanish Paella

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain right into your kitchen, then Spanish Paella is the perfect choice. This colorful, one-pan meal is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to gather family or friends around the table. It’s my go-to recipe for everything from busy weeknights to special gatherings. The combination of saffron-infused rice with tender chicken and fresh seafood creates a feast that feels both comforting and festive.

This Spanish Paella recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home, often bringing smiles and satisfied bellies. There’s something magical about watching it all come together in one pan, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward enough to make cooking fun and enjoyable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making Spanish Paella is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and scrumptious flavors.
• Perfect for Sharing: This dish is ideal for gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of Spain together.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare most of it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Spanish Paella, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. I love how easy it is to find these items at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Base:

• 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive Oil (Spanish EVOO if you have it)
• 1 Onion (diced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced – I like to use ½ red and ½ green)
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 3 roma tomatoes (very finely diced or 8 oz. tomato sauce)
• Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• Salt and pepper

For the Protein:

• ¼ cup white grape juice
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into pieces)
• ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley (divided)

For the Rice Mixture:

• 2 cups Spanish Rice
• 5 cups Chicken Broth

For Seafood Additions:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• ½ lb Jumbo Shrimp or prawns (about 12 – peeled, tail on)
• 1/2 lb Mussels (about 10-12, cleaned properly)
• 8 oz calamari rings

For Garnish:

• Lemons (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Spanish Paella is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the Protein: If seafood isn’t your thing, try adding different meats like chicken breast or turkey.
• Go Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with extra vegetables like zucchini, artichokes, or bell peppers for a hearty veggie version.
• Add More Flavor: Experiment with spices such as cayenne pepper for heat or turmeric for added color.
• Change the Rice: Use brown rice instead of Spanish rice for a healthier twist—just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How to Make Spanish Paella

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until the onion turns translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness! Then mix in the chopped tomatoes along with the bay leaf, paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper. Let this sauté for about 5 minutes before adding white grape juice; let it simmer for another 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Rice

Next up! Toss in the chicken pieces along with two tablespoons of fresh parsley and rice into your pot. Give it all a quick stir and let it cook together for about one minute. This helps infuse the rice with those beautiful flavors right from the start!

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Now comes an important part: slowly pour broth around the pan while giving it a gentle jiggle to distribute everything evenly without stirring! Bringing this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low ensures even cooking while creating that beloved crispy crust at the bottom called socarrat.

Step 4: Cook Uncovered

Let your paella cook uncovered for about 15-18 minutes without stirring. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully while letting that socarrat form perfectly at the bottom. Keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Add Seafood

After most of the liquid has been absorbed but before it’s fully cooked through—nestle in your shrimp, mussels, and calamari rings! Sprinkle frozen peas on top then continue cooking without stirring for another five minutes.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked to perfection, remove your pan from heat! Cover it with a lid or some tinfoil then place a kitchen towel over it; let it rest for about ten minutes—this step allows all flavors to settle nicely.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finally! Garnish generously with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving hot right from the pan! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Spanish Paella with family and friends.

Pro Tips for Making Spanish Paella

Making a delightful Spanish Paella is all about the little details that enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect paella:

• Use quality rice: Opt for a short-grain rice like Bomba or Calasparra, as these varieties absorb more flavor and moisture without becoming mushy.
• Don’t stir after adding broth: By refraining from stirring once the broth is added, you allow the rice to develop a crispy bottom layer known as socarrat, which adds wonderful texture and depth.
• Sauté your proteins separately: For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing your shrimp and chicken pieces separately before adding them to the paella. This step enhances their taste and ensures they cook perfectly.
• Experiment with seasonal vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like artichokes or green beans to your paella. They not only contribute color but also nutritional value and flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing your paella to sit covered for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more enjoyable dish.

How to Serve Spanish Paella

Presenting your Spanish Paella can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas on how to serve this beautiful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshens up the dish with its vibrant flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside your paella for an extra zing! The acidity from the lemon brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the paella while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your paella. It adds a delightful crunch to your meal!
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus offer both color and nutrition which complements the hearty paella wonderfully.

By following these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Spain right in your own home! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Spanish Paella!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spanish Paella is not only a delightful dish to serve up for dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the paella to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the paella cool entirely before freezing.
• Divide into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delicious Spanish Paella:

Can I make Spanish Paella without seafood?

Absolutely! You can create a delicious chicken-only version or add more vegetables instead. Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences!

What type of rice is best for Spanish Paella?

Short-grain rice, specifically Spanish rice varieties like Bomba or Calasparra, are ideal as they absorb flavors well while maintaining their texture.

How do I achieve the perfect socarrat in my Spanish Paella?

To get that crispy bottom layer (socarrat), avoid stirring the rice after adding the broth. Just let it cook undisturbed, giving it a gentle shake occasionally until it’s perfectly golden.

Can I prepare Spanish Paella ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store leftovers easily for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create this flavorful Spanish Paella in your kitchen! It’s a dish that brings people together and fills your home with wonderful aromas. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!