Spanish Paella (Paella Española)

Paella Española, or Spanish Paella, is a classic dish from the Valencia region of Spain. This flavorful and colorful rice dish is often made with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Spanish Paella (Paella Española)

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 2 cups short-grain rice
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 pound chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large paella pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  2. Add the bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and saffron threads. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
  4. Stir in the rice, then add the broth. Arrange the chicken pieces and chorizo on top of the rice.
  5. Simmer for about 20 minutes, then add the shrimp and peas. Continue to cook until the rice is tender and the shrimp are cooked through.
  6. Remove from heat and let the paella rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
20g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Paella pan or large skillet Wooden spoon Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Stovetop Cutting board Knife Lemon squeezer (optional)

Serving suggestions

Serve the paella with a side of crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For the best flavor, use high-quality saffron and smoked paprika in this recipe.

Cost

$25