Maria's Classic Paella - A Traditional Spanish Dish Bursting with Flavors

Maria's Classic Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain to your table. This recipe combines succulent seafood, aromatic spices, and tender rice to create a culinary masterpiece. With its striking presentation and mouthwatering taste, Maria's Classic Paella is sure to impress your family and friends. Prepare this iconic dish in just a matter of minutes and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Spain.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of Arborio or Valencia rice
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 pound of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound of mussels, cleaned and debearded
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of saffron threads
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1/2 cup of white wine
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
4. Add the saffron threads, smoked paprika, and turmeric to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Pour in the white wine and cook for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
6. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine it with the vegetables and spices.
7. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked.
8. Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
9. Arrange the cooked chicken thighs, shrimp, mussels, and lemon wedges on top of the rice.
10. Cover the pan and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the mussels have opened.
11. Once cooked, remove the paella from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
13. Enjoy Maria's Classic Paella with a glass of chilled white wine for a truly authentic Spanish dining experience.

Interesting Facts