paella
Jason Lowe
Paella, paella, paella! We love paella. This signature Spanish dish, almost considered a national dish by those outside of Spain, is a specialty of Valencia. During the summer, crowds of people come together for a big paella party. It's not uncommon to see an entire village gathered in the square watching a giant paella being made. Traditionally only men cook the paella and women help prepare the ingredients. The key ingredient in paella is rice, usually bomba rice, which in the paellera (paella pan) forms a crusty layer called soccarat--that's the prized piece everyone fights for.

In Valencia there a two types of paella. The classic Valencian paella is made with rabbit, snails, and beans. Seafood paella can include clams, mussels, squid, shrimp and lobster. Outside of Valencia, you'll find mixed paella, which blends seafood and meats, such as chicken and/or chorizo sausage. Here in the States especially, it's quite common to find mixed paella served in Spanish restaurants.

Our collection of recipes includes seafood versions made in the great outdoors on a grill as well as easy simplified stove-top versions. You don't need to go to Spain to enjoy paella. Get a group of friends together--or invite the whole block--and have your own paella party!

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Paella Recipes


Related Video

Watch the video below to learn how to make a seafood paella at home.