All about paella: history, summer recipe and how to prepare it like an expert
Paella is one of the most emblematic dishes of Spanish cuisine and an excellent choice for summer
Paella is an outdoor preparation, with fresh ingredients and unique flavor make it a perfect experience to share.
In this article we tell you about its origin, how to prepare it step by step, what type of paella pan to use and how to keep it in perfect condition.
Brief history of paella
Originally from the Valencian Community, paella was born as a humble country dish prepared over an open fire with local ingredients: rice, vegetables, rabbit, chicken and saffron. Over time, variations with seafood, fish or even mixed versions emerged. The important thing is not to follow a rigid recipe, but to respect the essence of the dish: rice cooked in a wide, shallow pan, with a thin, well-browned layer on the bottom.
Seafood Paella for summer (4-6 people)
Ingredients:
- 400 g bomba type rice
- 800 ml of fish or seafood stock
- 300 g squid in rings
- 200 g of mussels
- 200 g of shrimps
- 1 ripe tomato
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 clove of garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Saffron strands or colorant
- Salt to taste
- Lemon to accompany
Preparation:
- In the paella pan, sauté the chopped garlic, the bell pepper strips and the grated tomato.
- Add the squid and sauté for a couple of minutes.
- Add the rice and sauté it for a moment so that it is impregnated with the sauce.
- Add the hot broth with the saffron. Cook for 10 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and mussels. Cook 8-10 minutes more until the rice is done.
- Turn off the heat, cover with a cloth and let stand 5 minutes.
- Serve with lemon and, if you can, in the open air!
Recommended product of the week
Polished or Enameled steel Paella pan
– Polished steel allows to reach the famous “socarrat” (the golden rice at the bottom).
– The enameled versions do not need so much maintenance and are ideal for beginners.
– Use a paella pan of at least 32 cm for 4-6 people.
Extra tip: If you use induction or vitroceramic, look for paella pans compatible with a diffuser base.
Maintenance and care
– Wash the paella pan by hand. Dry very well after washing, especially if it is made of polished steel.
– To keep it without rusting, spread with a few drops of oil and keep it wrapped in kitchen paper.
– Never put it in the dishwasher if it is made of traditional steel.
Ideal for barbecues and summer gatherings
Are you having a meal in the garden or on the terrace? Paella is perfect for cooking in full view of your guests. Instead of hamburgers or ribs, surprise with an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Plus, if you have a gas griddle or outdoor burner, you can prepare paella without heating up the kitchen!
Check out our paella pans and accessories
Discover the flavor of the Mediterranean on our youtube channel.
It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner in the kitchen or an expert chef; our videos will guide you step by step, making each dish easy and fun to prepare with our products. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our content, let the creativity flow and surprise your friends and family with authentic Mediterranean delicacies.
