How to Make Traditional Spanish Paella

Here’s a simple recipe to prepare a delicious and authentic paella at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cups paella rice (short-grain, like Bomba or Arborio)
• 4 cups chicken or seafood stock (warm)
• 1 tsp saffron threads (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup peas
• 8-10 shrimp
• 8-10 mussels
• 1 chicken thigh (cut into chunks)
• 1 chorizo sausage (sliced)
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base
   • Heat olive oil in a large, shallow paella pan over medium heat.
   • Sauté the chicken and chorizo until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
   • In the same pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and red pepper until softened.
3. Add Rice and Spices
   • Stir in the rice, smoked paprika, and saffron water, coating the grains in the oil and spices.
4. Add Stock and Tomatoes
   • Pour in the warm stock and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Assemble the Paella
   • Arrange the cooked chicken, chorizo, shrimp, and mussels on top of the rice. Do not stir.
   • Add peas for color and flavor.
6. Cook Without Stirring
   • Let the paella simmer on medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Create the Socarrat
   • Increase the heat for the last few minutes to develop the crispy bottom layer, known as the socarrat.
8. Rest and Serve
   • Remove from heat, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
   • Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Enjoy your homemade paella, a true taste of Spain! ¡Buen provecho!