Sail through Spain's culinary seascape with a plate of authentic shrimp paella. Luscious shrimp, nestled among saffron-infused rice, bell peppers, and peas, creates a colorful tapestry of flavors and textures. Each forkful promises to transport you to a sunlit Valencian beach.
Precise Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings and Ideal Serving Size
- Yields: 6 servings
- Ideal Serving Size: A hearty scoop, ensuring a generous portion of shrimp and rice.
Essential Nutritional Information
- Calories: 365 kcal per serving
- Proteins: 24g
- Fats: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fiber: 4g
Ingredients (Measured in Grams)
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): 450 grams
- Arborio rice: 300 grams
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 800ml
- Saffron threads: 0.5 grams
- Bell peppers (sliced): 200 grams
- Green peas: 150 grams
- Olive oil: 30ml
- Onion (finely chopped): 100 grams
- Garlic (minced): 20 grams
- Paprika: 5 grams
- Salt: 5 grams
- Freshly ground black pepper: 3 grams
- Fresh parsley (chopped): 15 grams for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Detailed Method of Preparation
- In a large paella pan or wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until aromatic.
- Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the oil.
- Pour in the broth and sprinkle the saffron threads. Bring to a simmer and let cook without stirring.
- Halfway through the rice cooking, arrange the shrimp, bell peppers, and green peas on top.
- Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Continue cooking until the rice is tender, the shrimp is cooked through, and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and cover with a lid or foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Proven Tips for Culinary Success
- For an authentic touch, achieve the coveted "socarrat" or crispy rice layer at the bottom by increasing the heat for the last few minutes of cooking.
- A splash of white wine can enhance the flavors when added with the broth.
Anticipated FAQs
- Can I use other seafood? Absolutely, mussels, clams, or even squid can be great additions.
- What if I don't have a paella pan? A wide, shallow skillet will work just fine.