There’s a certain charm to gathering around the table with a dish that tells a story—one where each ingredient reflects a dance of fresh flavors and Mediterranean sunshine. Enter my Next Level Paella. This classic Spanish seafood delight transforms any meal into a memorable culinary experience. Picture a vibrant pan filled with saffron-infused rice, plump tiger prawns, tender squid, and briny mussels that glisten in the light. It’s not just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses, the perfect way to impress friends or spice up your family dinner.
As the delicious aroma wafts through your kitchen, you’ll transport your loved ones straight to the coastal streets of Valencia, all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just trying to spice up your weeknight routine, this dish is an approachable indulgence—unexpectedly simple to prepare yet undeniably captivating. Buckle up for a flavor journey that makes any occasion feel special!
Why is paella the ultimate crowd-pleaser?
Bold flavors: This classic dish combines fresh seafood with fragrant saffron rice, creating an explosion of taste.
Versatility: Customize your paella easily with seasonal vegetables or different proteins, making it suitable for all diets.
Impressive presentation: A stunning dish served straight from the pan adds a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Easy to prepare: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels.
Memorable experience: Sharing a paella fosters connection and conversation, bringing friends and family together. Experience the joy of cooking by trying this delightful dish that turns any meal into a special occasion!
Paella Ingredients
• Get ready to create your masterpiece!
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For the Stock
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Olive oil – Use extra-virgin for a richer flavor in your paella.
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Tiger prawns (10 large, in shells) – They add a delightful sweetness; shrimp makes a fine substitute if needed.
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Parsley (small bunch, stalks separated from leaves) – Enhances the stock’s flavor; cilantro works as an alternative.
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Dry sherry (100ml) or white wine – Adds depth; a splash of white grape juice can be used for a non-alcoholic option.
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Mussels (500g) – They bring savory brininess; both fresh and frozen are great choices.
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For the Paella
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Saffron strands (large pinch) – The essential flavoring in paella; turmeric can substitute if you’re in a pinch.
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Cooking chorizo (150g, cut into chunks) – Infuses spiciness; swap with mild Italian sausage if unavailable.
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Onion (1, finely chopped) – Fundamental for the sofrito; shallots can replace it if you prefer.
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Garlic cloves (3, finely chopped) – They add aromatic depth, and there’s no substitute for their unique flavor.
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Medium squid (1, about 300g, cleaned and cut) – Imparts unique texture; cuttlefish is a suitable alternative.
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Ripe tomatoes (2, roughly chopped) – They add acidity and moisture; use canned tomatoes if they’re out of season.
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Paella rice (250g) – Crucial for absorbing flavors; Bomba or Arborio is preferred to long-grain rice.
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Frozen broad beans or peas (100g, defrosted) – Adds color and texture; green beans are a good substitute.
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Lemon (1, zested and cut into wedges) – Brightens the dish brilliantly; Meyer lemons add a sweet touch.
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Smoked sea salt (optional) – Enhances overall flavor; regular sea salt can be used in a pinch.
This paella is sure to impress and transport you and your loved ones to a vibrant Spanish feast!
How to Make Paella
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Heat the Oil: In a wide, shallow pan, pour in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Warm it over medium heat until shimmering. This will be the foundation for your delicious paella.
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Sauté Prawn Heads: Add the shells of the tiger prawns along with the separated parsley stalks. Sauté until the prawn heads turn pink, then use a potato masher to gently mash them, releasing their flavorful essence.
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Create the Stock: Pour in 100ml of dry sherry (or white wine) and add 300ml of water. Season with smoked sea salt, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This lovely mixture will be the aromatic stock for your paella.
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Cook the Mussels: Add the mussels to the pan and cover. Cook over high heat for 3-4 minutes or until they open. Strain the broth into a bowl with saffron strands to infuse its delightful flavor.
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Sizzle the Chorizo: In the same pan, drizzle in the remaining olive oil and toss in the cooking chorizo. Sizzle until the oils are released, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This sofrito is vital for layers of flavor in your paella.
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Incorporate Squid and Tomatoes: Add the cleaned and cut squid along with the roughly chopped tomatoes. Pour in most of the strained stock, bringing everything to a boil.
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Mix in the Rice: Sprinkle in the paella rice and give it a gentle stir. Allow this vibrant mix to boil vigorously for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Simmer the Paella: Lower the heat and simmer undisturbed for 10 minutes, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid. The grains should be tender yet firm.
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Nestle Prawns: Place the prawn tails into the simmering rice, carefully nestling them in. Cook for another 5 minutes until the prawns are cooked through and vibrant.
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Finish with Mussels and Beans: Fold in the cooked mussels and the defrosted broad beans or peas; adjust consistency with additional stock if needed. Heat through gently.
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Let Rest: Turn off the heat and cover the pan with a tea towel for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Paella
- Wide Pan Necessity: Use a wide, shallow pan for even rice cooking; this prevents soggy or unevenly cooked grains in your paella.
- Flavor Extraction: Don’t skip mashing the prawn heads with a potato masher to release the sweet briny flavor into the stock; it enhances the dish significantly.
- Monitor Rice Carefully: Keep an eye on the paella while it simmers to avoid a soupy consistency; the goal is rice that’s moist but not swimming in liquid.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the paella rest covered for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to settle.
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Opt for the freshest ingredients you can find, especially seafood and saffron, to elevate the overall flavor of your paella.
Paella Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore the delicious world of paella by customizing this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace seafood with seasonal vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, and green beans for a hearty, meat-free version.
- Meat Lovers: Swap seafood for chicken or rabbit, seasoned with your favorite spices to add a rustic, land-based flair that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Spicy Option: Add sliced chorizo or a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat and introduce a delightful kick—perfect for spice enthusiasts!
- Grains Galore: Experiment with quinoa or farro instead of traditional paella rice for a unique twist on textures that also packs a nutritious punch.
- Smoky Touch: Incorporate smoked paprika into your sofrito for an extra layer of flavor that complements the saffron beautifully, boosting the dish’s depth.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a luscious, creamy paella that adds richness and an unexpected touch of sweetness.
- Citrus Burst: Zest an additional citrus like lime or blood orange into the dish to add a fragrant, bright twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sweet and Savory: Add some peas or corn for sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements, creating a delightful balance of flavors in every bite.
With these variations, you can craft a paella that’s uniquely yours, making every meal an adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful paella preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can create the stock and sauté the vegetables and chorizo up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container after cooking to maintain freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the stock mixture in your paella pan, add the rice and remaining ingredients, and bring it all together as specified in the recipe. To ensure the prawns and mussels are just as delicious, add them in the last stages of cooking and allow them to simmer gently until cooked through. Embrace this time-saving strategy, and you’ll bring restaurant-quality paella to your dinner table with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Next Level Paella?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your seafood masterpiece.
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Crusty Bread: This rustic addition is perfect for soaking up the delicious saffron-infused juices. A fresh baguette or artisan bread completes the meal beautifully.
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Light Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette will add brightness, balancing the indulgence of the paella with crisp freshness.
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Garlic Aioli: Serve this creamy dip alongside for an extra layer of flavor. Its rich, garlicky taste pairs wonderfully with the seafood’s brininess, making each bite even more memorable.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled Albariño or Verdejo brings out the vibrant flavors in the paella. These wines enhance the seafood’s sweetness while refreshing the palate.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and grilled to perfection offers a smoky contrast that complements the dish’s coastal flavors nicely.
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Flan for Dessert: Close the meal with a luscious flan. Its silky texture and caramel notes provide a sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory paella.
Each of these pairings adds a unique touch, ensuring your Next Level Paella experience is both satisfying and memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Paella
Fridge: Store leftover paella in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which could affect texture.
Freezer: To freeze paella, let it cool fully and then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within this timeframe.
Reheating: Thaw frozen paella overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. Cook until heated through, about 5–7 minutes.
Note: While freezing is possible, enjoy the fresh flavors of this paella within a few days for the best culinary experience!
Next Level Paella Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best seafood for my paella?
Absolutely! When choosing seafood, look for fresh tiger prawns that have a firm texture and a sweet sea aroma. The shells should be intact with no dark spots. For mussels, pick those that are closed tightly; discard any that remain open. If you opt for frozen seafood, ensure it’s flash-frozen for maximum freshness and flavor.
How long can I store leftover paella in the fridge?
You can store your leftover paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that could make the rice soggy.
Can I freeze paella, and how should I do it?
Very! To freeze, allow the paella to cool fully, and then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I do if the rice becomes too sticky during cooking?
If your paella turns out too sticky, don’t fret! Next time, ensure you’re using the right proportion of liquid to rice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of paella rice. Stir only once after adding the rice, as stirring further can release excess starch that might lead to stickiness. If you encounter this issue, try spreading the rice out on a baking sheet to cool it down and dry it slightly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this paella?
Definitely! If cooking for individuals with seafood allergies, consider making a vegetarian version using seasonal vegetables and vegetable stock instead of seafood. Additionally, if serving to children or those sensitive to spice, you might want to use a milder sausage or omit the chorizo altogether. Always check ingredient labels if you’re unsure about allergens.
Ultimate Paella Experience: Dive into Spanish Seafood Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a wide, shallow pan, pour in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and warm it over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the shells of the tiger prawns along with the separated parsley stalks. Sauté until the prawn heads turn pink, then use a potato masher to gently mash them.
- Pour in 100ml of dry sherry or white wine and add 300ml of water. Season with smoked sea salt and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the mussels to the pan and cover. Cook over high heat for 3-4 minutes or until they open.
- In the same pan, drizzle in the remaining olive oil and toss in the cooking chorizo. Sizzle until the oils are released.
- Stir in the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add the cleaned and cut squid along with the roughly chopped tomatoes. Pour in most of the strained stock and bring everything to a boil.
- Sprinkle in the paella rice and give it a gentle stir. Allow this vibrant mix to boil vigorously for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and simmer undisturbed for 10 minutes, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid.
- Place the prawn tails into the simmering rice, carefully nestling them in. Cook for another 5 minutes until the prawns are cooked through.
- Fold in the cooked mussels and the defrosted broad beans or peas; adjust consistency with additional stock if needed.
- Turn off the heat and cover the pan with a tea towel for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.