Paella is a classic Spanish dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Traditionally cooked over an open flame, it’s a one-pan dish that combines a variety of seafood, rich saffron-infused rice, and a medley of vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to treat yourself to a flavorful meal, this seafood paella recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the shores of Spain.
Ingredients
For the Paella:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice or short-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 1/2 cups white wine
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Seafood:
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 1/2 lb squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
- 1/2 lb firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Heat the Oil: In a large paella pan or a wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the rice, making sure each grain is coated with the oil and vegetables. Let it toast for 2 minutes, which will help give the paella a rich flavor.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the seafood stock and white wine, followed by the saffron (with its soaking liquid) and smoked paprika. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, without stirring, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid.
- Season to Taste: Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. The rice should be just starting to soften but still have a slight bite to it.
Step 3: Add the Seafood
- Add the Seafood: Arrange the shrimp, mussels, squid, and fish chunks evenly on top of the rice. You don’t want to stir the rice at this point—just let the seafood cook gently on top.
- Cover and Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil and reduce the heat to low. Let the paella cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through, the mussels have opened, and the rice is tender. If the rice looks dry, you can add a bit more seafood stock or water.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Check for Doneness: Once the rice is cooked and the seafood is tender, remove the paella from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the paella with fresh parsley and arrange lemon wedges around the pan for an extra burst of freshness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Paella is traditionally served family-style straight from the pan. Use a large spoon to scoop the seafood and rice onto plates, making sure everyone gets a portion of the flavorful seafood.
- Squeeze Lemon: Just before eating, squeeze a wedge of lemon over the paella for a tangy finish that brightens the rich, savory flavors.
Conclusion
Seafood Paella is a dish that brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to your table with its vibrant colors, aromatic flavors, and impressive presentation. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal, this paella is sure to impress. The combination of fresh seafood, saffron, and paprika-infused rice creates a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Enjoy the authentic taste of Spain with this easy-to-follow seafood paella recipe!
