La paella Valenciana

Discover the Delicious World of Valencian Paella!

Welcome, friends, to this culinary journey through one of Spain's most emblematic dishes: Paella Valenciana! If you're looking to immerse yourself in Spain's rich gastronomic culture, you can't miss the opportunity to try this delicacy full of flavour, tradition and culture.

  What is Paella Valenciana?

Paella is much more than just a dish in Spain; it is a symbol of conviviality, celebration and tradition. Originating from the Valencia region on the east coast of Spain, paella is a delicious combination of rice, fresh vegetables, meat (usually chicken and rabbit) and seafood, slow-cooked with aromatic spices and saffron.

The Art of Preparation  

The real magic of paella lies in its preparation process. On a sunny, festive day, it is common to see families and friends gathered around a large paella pan, sharing laughter and anecdotes while the tantalising aroma fills the air.

An experience for all senses

When you taste an authentic Valencian paella, you will embark on an unparalleled sensory journey. From the first bite, your palate will be greeted with an explosion of flavours: the softness of the rice, the tenderness of the meat and the freshness of the vegetables blend in perfect harmony.

Paella is also a visual spectacle. With its bright yellow and orange tones, it is like a canvas reflecting the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and the passion of its people.

                                                              Go ahead and try it!

If you are visiting Spain, don't miss the opportunity to try authentic Valencian paella in one of the local restaurants or, better still, at a Spanish friend's house.

And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try making it yourself? Nothing brings family and friends together like sharing the experience of cooking and enjoying a delicious paella together!

Learn how to make it!

Basic ingredients:

Rice: This is the main ingredient in Valencian paella. Short grain rice is used to absorb the flavours of the other ingredients.

Vegetables: Fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, green beans and garrofón (a kind of large, flat bean) are used to add colour and flavour to the dish.

Meat: Traditionally, chicken and rabbit are used, although other meats such as duck or seafood can also be added, depending on individual preference.

Saffron: This is a spice used to give colour and a unique flavour to Valencian paella. It is usually added to the cooking broth so that it permeates the rice.

Preparation: 

1. First, heat olive oil in the paella pan and fry 250g of chicken and 150g of rabbit until golden brown.

2. Reserve the cooked meat and cook 200g of green beans in the same oil until tender.
3. Add two chopped ripe tomatoes and mix with the other ingredients. 
4. Add the meat and 300g of rice again and stir well so that it soaks up the flavours of the meat and vegetables.

5. It is then completely covered with stock or water and the saffron is sprinkled on top.

6. Cook over a medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Do not stir the rice while it is cooking.

7. Remove the paella from the heat and leave to stand for a few minutes before serving. 

8. And that's it! You can now enjoy a delicious Valencian paella.

Useful tips:              

• It is important to use a large, flat paella pan so that the rice cooks evenly.
• Do not stir the rice while it is cooking, as this can cause it to become sticky.
• You can accompany the Valencian paella with a good Spanish wine and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  

In summary, Valencian paella is a delicious dish full of tradition that you cannot miss if you visit Spain. 

We hope you will be encouraged to prepare it at home and enjoy its incredible taste!