Seafood Paella

Seafood paella is a delicious and vibrant Spanish dish known for its flavorful combination of rice, saffron, and an assortment of seafood. Here’s a seafood paella recipe with a description of the process:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Arborio or Bomba rice
• 1 pound (450 grams) mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and/or any other seafood of your choice)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (pimentón)
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups chicken or seafood broth (hot)
• 1 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the saffron infusion. In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with a couple of tablespoons of hot water. Allow it to steep and release its vibrant color and aroma.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
6. Stir in the smoked paprika, regular paprika, and dried oregano, and cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
7. Add the Arborio or Bomba rice to the pan and stir to coat it with the flavorful mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the rice grains turn translucent at the edges.
8. Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir until it’s mostly absorbed.
9. Start adding the hot chicken or seafood broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the liquid to be mostly absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 15-20 minutes, and it’s essential for creating the creamy consistency of paella.
10. While the rice is cooking, arrange the mixed seafood on top. Press them gently into the rice, so they cook evenly.
11. Pour the saffron infusion over the rice and seafood, giving it that classic golden color and flavor.
12. Scatter the frozen peas over the top of the paella.
13. Continue cooking the paella for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked al dente and has formed a crust on the bottom (socarrat). Do not stir the paella during this time.
14. Remove the paella from heat and cover it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
15. Garnish the seafood paella with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Seafood paella is a stunning and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the aromatic saffron, the tender seafood, and the satisfying rice in this classic Spanish dish!