
Seafood Paella
A vibrant Spanish rice dish loaded with fresh seafood, saffron, and vegetables.
20 mins
Prep Time
40 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups short-grain rice (such as Bomba or Arborio)
- 4 cups fish or seafood stock
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, squid)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tomato, grated
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Heat the stock in a saucepan and add the saffron threads. Let it simmer on low heat to infuse the flavor.
In a large paella pan or wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the minced garlic, grated tomato, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
Stir in the rice, coating it well with the vegetable mixture. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the saffron-infused stock and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer without stirring for about 15 minutes.
Arrange the seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, squid) on top of the rice. Cover and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the seafood is done.
Scatter the peas over the paella and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Chef's Tips
- Saffron Substitute: If saffron is unavailable, use turmeric for color, but the flavor will differ.
- Seafood Variations: Use any fresh seafood available—scallops, lobster, or crab work well too.
- Crust Formation: For the coveted socarrat (crispy bottom layer), increase heat slightly at the end and listen for a crackling sound.
- Stock Importance: A good-quality fish or seafood stock enhances the dish’s depth of flavor.
- Resting Time: Let the paella rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.