Spanish Paella

Spanish Paella is a vibrant and aromatic dish hailing from Valencia, Spain. Traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan known as a paellera, this dish is famous for its rich flavors of saffron-infused rice, combined with a delectable mix of seafood, chicken, and rabbit. Ideal for large gatherings, this one-pot meal is a true celebration of Spanish culinary heritage.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Serves: 6

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken thighs, cut into pieces
1/2 lb rabbit, cut into pieces
1/2 lb mussels, cleaned
1/2 lb clams, cleaned
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup peas
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 tomatoes, grated
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1/4 cup warm water
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups short-grain rice (preferably Bomba)
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large paellera or wide, shallow pan over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and rabbit pieces to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add green beans, peas, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Stir in grated tomatoes and garlic, and cook until the liquid is reduced.
5. Add smoked paprika and saffron with water. Stir well to combine flavors.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Evenly distribute the rice across the pan, and return the chicken and rabbit to the pan.
8. Arrange mussels, clams, and shrimp on top of the rice.
9. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, rotating the pan occasionally for even cooking.
10. Once the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
11. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges.

Storage

Store leftover paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat paella gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Scan for cooking tips & leave a review!

itsonly.recipes/view/spanish-paella

This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.