🥘 What Is Paella? A Guide to Spain’s Most Iconic Rice Dish
Paella is one of the most recognizable dishes in Spanish cuisine—a colorful, deeply flavorful rice dish cooked in a wide, shallow pan. Originating in Valencia, paella has evolved into many variations, from seafood paella to vegan and vegetarian versions that suit every taste.
🔍 Types of Paella: Popular Variations You Should Try
Paella comes in many delicious variations, each highlighting different ingredients and regional flavors. Some of the most popular types include:
- Paella Valenciana: The classic recipe with chicken, rabbit, and green beans. Did you know? It’s considered the original paella and dates back to the 18th century in Valencia.
Valencian Paella With Snails And Rosemary Recipe by Encar
Sunday was a very special day, and I wanted to celebrate it with the most typical dish from Valencia. I don’t know why making paella intimidates me so much, since the few times I’ve made it, it turns out delicious to my taste. When guests come over, I immediately look for someone else to make it bec…
- Seafood Paella: Loaded with fresh shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid for a rich ocean taste. Fun fact: It’s popular along Spain’s coastal regions and often uses fish stock instead of chicken broth.
Seafood And Prawn Paella Recipe by Sara PA
I really love cooking a good rice dish, I can’t enjoy it more, and whenever friends come over from anywhere, they expect their serving of rice! 🤣 I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve probably made more than 500 😅 - I got curious and calculated, considering I make one every Sunday for the past 12-1…
- Shrimp Paella: Focused on succulent prawns, perfect for seafood lovers. Did you know? Shrimp adds a slightly sweet flavor that balances the saffron and spices perfectly.
Octopus And Jumbo Shrimp Paella Recipe by Xavi
Great recipe for Octopus and Jumbo Shrimp Paella.
- Shellfish Paella: Highlights crab, lobster, or other shellfish delicacies. Fun fact: Shellfish paellas are often festive dishes served during special occasions.
Mixed Paella With Meat, Shrimp, And Mushrooms Recipe by Raúl Alonso
This recipe is from a friend, but since I didn’t have cuttlefish, I added shrimp, and since I had mushrooms from another day, I used them too. I didn’t get to try her paella because she didn’t send me a container... what a friend I have, but mine turned out really good. Although I’m not sure if it c…
- Chicken Paella: A hearty and flavorful option with tender chicken pieces. Tip: Marinating the chicken before cooking can add extra juiciness and flavor.
Valencian Paella With Chicken And Rabbit Recipe by Mónica Royo
This is my version of the traditional Valencian paella for 4 people. In Valencia, there are many debates about how this rice dish should or shouldn’t be made, and I really couldn’t say who’s right or wrong, but I’ve eaten paella in many traditional restaurants, and my recipe is based on those. If yo…
- Vegetable Paella: A light and healthy alternative made primarily with fresh vegetables. Health tip: It’s naturally low in fat and packed with antioxidants from fresh produce.
- Vegan Paella: Packed with seasonal vegetables and vibrant spices, no meat or seafood. Insight: Vegan paellas are rising in popularity as plant-based diets grow worldwide.
Vegan Valencian Paella Recipe by Gilbert (Aprenent a la vida 📚♻️☯️)
Great recipe for Vegan Valencian Paella.
- Vegetarian Paella: Similar to vegan but can include dairy or eggs, featuring fresh garden vegetables. Note: Some versions add Manchego cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Each variation offers a unique taste experience while staying true to the traditional Spanish cooking method of paella.
📝 What Are the Ingredients in Paella?
The essential ingredients for paella include:
- Short-grain rice (like bomba or Calasparra)
- Olive oil
- Saffron or smoked paprika
- Stock (vegetable, chicken, or seafood depending on the type)
- Protein (meat, fish, shellfish, or legumes for vegan options)
- Vegetables such as bell pepper, green beans, tomatoes, or artichokes
- Garlic and onion for flavor
Most Common Questions About Paella
- What is paella? A traditional Spanish rice dish cooked in a large pan with meat, seafood, or vegetables.
- What is traditionally in a paella? The original paella Valenciana uses chicken, rabbit, and green beans.What’s the difference between risotto and paella? Paella is cooked dry without stirring, while risotto is creamy and stirred constantly.
| Aspect | Paella | Risotto |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Spain (Valencia) | Italy (Lombardy and Piedmont) |
| Type of Rice | Short-grain rice (bomba, calasparra) | Short-grain rice (arborio, carnaroli) |
| Cooking Method | Cooked dry, without stirring after adding broth | Creamy cooking, stirring constantly |
| Texture | Loose grains with crispy crust (socarrat) | Creamy and smooth |
| Ingredients | Meat, seafood, vegetables, saffron | Broth, cheese, butter, white wine |
| Cooking Time | 20-30 minutes | 18-25 minutes |
| Final Dish | Main course | Main course or side dish |
| Flavor | Intense, sometimes smoky flavors | Mild and creamy flavor |
- Is paella healthy or unhealthy?
Paella can be a balanced meal—rich in vegetables, protein, and healthy fats—depending on the ingredients.
💡 Expert Tip
Use bomba rice or another short-grain variety to get the perfect texture. And don’t stir once the broth is added—this helps create the delicious socarrat (crispy rice crust) at the bottom!