Paella Recipe – A Taste of Spain
Description
Make and share this delectable Paella recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This delightful one-dish meal brings the vibrant flavors of Spain to your table, perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion. It’s easy to prepare and ready in just over an hour, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 chorizo sausages
- 7 onions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (additional)
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup short-grain rice
- 2 cups raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1179.3 kcal
- Fat: 51.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 12.3 g
- Cholesterol: 284.9 mg
- Sodium: 2398.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 93.5 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugars: 5.2 g
- Protein: 78.2 g
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 40 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Saffron Infusion
Soak the saffron threads in 1/2 cup of hot chicken broth. This step will help to release the distinctive color and flavor of the saffron, giving your paella its characteristic golden hue and aromatic essence. Set aside and let the magic happen while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken
Generously season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them on both sides until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This process should take about 5-7 minutes per side.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
Once the chicken is browned, add 1/4 cup of water to the pan. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook through until it is tender and no longer pink in the center. This will take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Brown the Chorizo
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat, then add the chorizo sausages. Brown the chorizo until they are nicely caramelized, which should take about 5 minutes. The sausages will release their flavorful oils, which will infuse the entire dish with a smoky, spicy kick.
Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan with the chorizo. Sauté until the onions are golden and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a flavorful base that will elevate the taste of your paella.
Step 6: Toast the Rice
Stir in the short-grain rice, making sure it is well-coated with the oil and aromatic mixture. Toast the rice for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent. This step enhances the texture of the rice and helps it absorb the flavors more effectively.
Step 7: Combine Broth and Spices
Add the remaining chicken broth, saffron infusion, salt, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. The broth will take on a rich, golden color and a deep, savory aroma.
Step 8: Add Chicken and Shrimp
Gently nestle the cooked chicken breasts and raw shrimp into the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil. The steam trapped inside will cook the shrimp to perfection while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Step 9: Bake the Paella
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the covered pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the cover, stir the paella, and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 10: Finishing Touch
Just before serving, stir in fresh peas to add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. The peas should be bright green and slightly tender, offering a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the paella.
Serving Suggestions
Paella is a dish best enjoyed with loved ones. Serve it directly from the pan to capture the authentic feel of a Spanish meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad, a loaf of crusty bread, and a glass of chilled Spanish white wine or sangria. 🍷🥗🥖
Tips for Success
- Saffron: Use high-quality saffron for the best flavor and color. A little goes a long way!
- Rice: Short-grain rice such as Bomba or Arborio works best as it absorbs liquid well and stays tender.
- Broth: Homemade chicken broth enhances the depth of flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch.
- Seafood: Feel free to add other seafood like mussels or clams for variety.
Enjoy your journey to Spain with each delightful bite of this flavorful and aromatic Paella! Buen provecho! 🌞🍤🍗🍚
