As you probably already know, the worldwide famous paella is a typical Spanish dish, originally from the Valencian Community. It consists of a dry rice dish cooked in a paellera, which is a wide, shallow pan made especially and solely to cook this delicacy. No matter if you prefer a seafood paella or a meat one, all of them are simply an irresistible delicacy.
The main particularity of the paella is that its ingredients may vary by region, but always include rice (except for the peculiar fideuà), vegetables, meat or seafood. This way we can find a delicious and exquisite variety of paella options that will suit all the tastes. Would you like to discover them with Sazón?
Paella Valenciana
Traditionally, paella was cooked outdoors, over a wood fire or on a gas cooker, and shared with family or friends. That’s where the authentic paella valenciana comes from. Being the original and most traditional version, this paella includes rabbit, chicken, snails, green beans, artichokes, white beans and garrofón. Of course, all this apart from the main ingredients which are rice, olive oil, saffron, stock and several spices such as rosemary, thyme or ñora. This mixture of quality and savoury ingredients results in an irresistible dish made for all the palates, even for the most demanding ones.
Some of our local cooks prepare their paellas in the traditional way. Juanolo loves to cook outdoors, and therefore he will make you a tasty paella in his garden. If you go for something even more traditional, José Luis will cook his paella valenciana over a wood fire. Though he can also prepare any other variants (like seafood paella, for example).
Seafood Paella
This version features a variety of seafood, which can include shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and sometimes fish. It’s a popular variation in coastal regions. Seafood paella highlights the bounty of the sea and is especially popular in coastal regions of Spain, where fresh seafood is readily available. Common seafood ingredients used in this tasty dish include shrimp, mussels, clams, squid and sometimes fish fillets. Actually, the choice of seafood can depend on what is fresh and available in the region.
A delicious version of the seafood paella is the Arroz del Senyoret, a speciality from Alicante whose main peculiarity is that all the seafood is totally peeled and therefore, ready to eat. That’s where the name of this paella comes from: a rice already prepared so that the Sir of the house didn’t have to use his hands to eat. Our local cook, Pascual, knows well how to prepare this tasteful version of the seafood paella. Come to Pascual’s house and try his exquisite Arroz del Senyoret by the summer pool or by the warm fireplace in winter.
Paella mixta
A combination of both meat and seafood paella, this variation typically includes chicken, boneless pork meat, shrimp, swordfish spices and other seafood such as mussels, calamari and clams. This version seeks to offer a balanced and diverse taste profile by including elements from both the land and the sea, which in the end creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavours. This blend of ingredients also contributes to the dish’s visually appealing presentation, with the vibrant colours of the meats and seafood contrasted against the saffron-infused rice.
Our diner host, Isa, will cook a delightful example of the paella mixta for you. Made as dictaded by tradition, that means cooked on the fire wood, you will find her menu simply irresistible.
Vegetable Paella
Though not being a meat or seafood paella, this vegetarian version is really a treat too. A delightful and flavourful variation of the traditional paella that caters to vegetarians and those who prefer plant-based dishes. The paella de verduras or vegetable paella showcases the vibrant flavours and colours of various vegetables, herbs, and spices.
This version is not only delicious but also highlights the versatility of the paella concept, allowing people to enjoy the iconic Spanish dish without any animal products. The vegetable paella includes a variety of vegetables, such as artichokes, bell peppers, green beans, tomatoes, and sometimes mushrooms. Yummy!
Black rice Paella
This unique variation gets its dark colour from squid ink. Like the seafood paella, it can contain various types of seafood and it is known for its distinctive flavour. Besides, the squid ink not only gives the rice its dark colour but also infuses it with a briny and slightly tangy seafood flavour. This results in a uniquely complex taste profile that seafood enthusiasts often appreciate.
Nieves, one of Sazón‘s local cooks knows exactly how to prepare the best arroz negro. Would you like to savour it at her own home?
Lobster Paella
The lobster paella is a luxurious and indulgent variation of the traditional seafood paella dish. As the name suggests, it features lobster as the star ingredient, which sets it apart from other types of paella that might incorporate different seafood or meats.
Just like other types of paella, lobster paella can have regional and personal variations. Some versions might include additional seafood, such as shrimp or mussels, to complement the lobster. The choice of spices and seasoning can also vary based on the preferences of the chef.
Fideuà
Let’s finish this article with an exquisite Spanish dish, often considered a close variation to paella. It shares some similarities with it, but features a key difference: instead of rice, fideuá is made with short, thin noodles (fideos in Spanish). The dish originated in the coastal region of Valencia, Spain, and has gained popularity both within Spain and internationally.
Still not sure which paella version you should taste? Enjoy all of them at our local cooks’ homes!
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