National Dish of Spain Paella

Paella is a popular Spanish rice dish that includes meat, vegetables, and seafood. saffron is typically one of the main ingredients. This exotic dish originated in the city of Valencia and is said to be a blend of Roman and Arabian cuisine, which were the two prominent cultures of early Spain.

Servings

5 Person

Prep Time

20 Min

Cook Time

35 Min

Total Time

55 Min

2 cups
short grained rice (Bomba / Calasparra)
4 cups
chicken broth
1 cup
frozen peas (thawed)
1 lb.
mussels (scrubbed and cleaned)
1 lb.
small clams (scrubbed)
1 lb.
jumbo shrimp (deveined with tails on)
1 lb.
Spanish chorizo sausage (sliced ½ inch thick)
½ tsp.
saffron threads
3
cloves garlic (minced)
1
yellow onion (peeled and diced)
1
red bell pepper (seeded and sliced)
2 tbsp.
olive oil
Kosher salt
Black pepper

Paella is a popular Spanish rice dish that includes meat, vegetables, and seafood. saffron is typically one of the main ingredients. This exotic dish originated in the city of Valencia and is said to be a blend of Roman and Arabian cuisine, which were the two prominent cultures of early Spain. Spaniards traditionally cooked Paella in a special pan over an open fire.

Directions for Preparing Paella

  1. Warm the olive oil in a paella pan or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry the sausages for three (0:03) minutes in the oil, flipping them occasionally until they become brown on all sides.
  3. Add the onion, bell pepper slices, and garlic to the sausages.
  4. Sauté for another three (0:03) minutes until the vegetables are soft.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the rice to the pan, then the saffron.
  7. Mix well and cook for two (0:02) minutes until the rice becomes yellow.
  8. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoon of salt.
  9. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pan.
  10. Allow the Paella to cook for twenty (0:20) minutes or until the rice has absorbed nearly all of the liquid.
  11. Press the mussels and clams into the rice, hinge side down.
  12. Arrange the shrimp over the rice.
  13. Sprinkle the peas over the rice.
  14. Cover the pan and cook for five (0:05) minutes until the shrimp is pink and the shellfish have opened.
  15. Discard any unopened clams.
  16. Serve immediately.

Spain cuisine is made up of a great number of dishes that stem from the diversity in geography, climate, and culture. It is deeply influenced by the abundant seafood available from the waters that surround the country and reflects the country’s deep Mediterranean roots. Spain’s extensive history with many cultural influences has led to its unique cuisine.

National Dish of China

Paella is one of the most famous dishes of Spain and is closely associated with the city of Valencia, where it originated. The dish takes its name from the paella, the wide, shallow pan in which it is traditionally cooked over an open flame. Paella developed as a rural meal prepared by farmers and laborers in eastern Spain. Rice was cooked outdoors with whatever ingredients were readily available, including vegetables, beans, rabbit, chicken, and later seafood in coastal areas. Saffron became a defining ingredient, giving the rice its distinctive golden color and aroma. The dish reflects the layered history of Spain. Rice cultivation techniques were introduced during Arab rule, while Roman influences contributed to agricultural practices and communal cooking traditions. Over time, these influences merged into what became paella, a dish rooted in practicality but elevated through careful seasoning and technique. Although many modern variations exist, traditional Valencian paella follows strict conventions and does not originally include seafood. Today, paella is served across Spain and around the world, symbolizing Spanish hospitality, regional pride, and the blending of cultures that shaped the country’s culinary identity.

Per Serving (Approximate values)

% Daily Value
Calories serving
234 (kcal)
Total Fat
g
Saturated Fat
g
Unsaturated Fat
g
Trans Fat
g
Cholesterol
g
Sodium
g
Total Carbohydrate
g
Dietary Fiber
g
Sugars
mg
Protein
g
Values are based on standard ingredients and may vary

Related Recipe

34 Views
August 14, 2025
Lachcha Paratha is a popular Indian flatbread known for its crispy, flaky layers. Traditionally made with a mix of whole wheat flour and oil, this delicious paratha pairs perfectly with curries, yogurt, or even on its own with some butter.
539 Views
June 21, 2025
Shah Plov is a rich and aromatic Azerbaijani rice dish made with saffron rice, tender meat, dried fruits, and nuts, baked inside a crisp golden crust for a stunning presentation.
27 Views
December 17, 2023
Gado Gado is a well-known dish in Indonesia. It is a one-dish meal, similar to a salad. It is prepared with fresh seasonal vegetables, eggs, tofu, and ingredients native to Indonesia

User Area