Shrimp Paella is a delightful seafood variation of the traditional Spanish dish that typically features a medley of rice, vegetables, and various proteins cooked in a flavorful broth. This specific version focuses on shrimp as the main protein, complemented by a rich and aromatic blend of spices, vegetables, and saffron-infused rice. It’s a colorful and festive dish perfect for gatherings or a family meal, capturing the essence of Spanish culinary traditions with a seafood twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 cups of paella rice or short-grain rice
- 3 cups of chicken or fish broth
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup of frozen peas
- 1/4 teaspoon of saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Appliances and Special Utensils Needed:
- Stove
- Paella Pan (a large, shallow, and typically round pan with sloping sides which helps the rice cook evenly and develop a more concentrated flavor)
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
Recipe:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Clean and devein the shrimp if not already prepared. Chop the vegetables as described.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in the paella pan over medium heat. Add the onions, red and green peppers, and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent.
- Cook the Tomato:
- Add the diced tomato and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes have broken down slightly.
- Add the Rice and Spices:
- Stir in the rice, saffron, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to mix all the ingredients well.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook without stirring for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked.
- Add the Shrimp and Peas:
- Arrange the shrimp on top of the rice and scatter the peas around. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Let it Rest:
- Remove the pan from heat and cover with a lid or a clean kitchen towel. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over.
This Shrimp Paella is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a delightful dish full of flavors that are sure to impress your guests. The key to a great paella is using the right rice and a proper paella pan, which allows the rice to cook evenly and develop a delicious crust known as “socarrat”. Enjoy your meal with a side of crusty bread and a glass of Spanish white wine for a complete dining experience.