Many people talk about what paella is, and many people are misinformed about what it is. Many people state that paella is a dish that is made from a variety of leftovers that are thrown together. While this may have been true a number of centuries ago, it is not how paella is made in today’s day and age.
What is paella? The term Paella, derived from the Latin word “patella,” and the English word “pail, which refers to an iron cooking utensil. Paella therefore refers to the utensil used in preparing the food, which is a wide, flat iron pan that is shallow with handles on both sides. The dish paella, is known for its combination of rice, meat, seafood and spices that when combined provide a hearty meal that is aesthetically appealing with a fusion of flavors.
Paella is a Spanish dish that is very eclectic and versatile. It is primarily made with a few common ingredients. These ingredients are short grain rice, homemade stock, seafood, chicken, beef, vegetables, saffron, and a number of spices. Think of it as a Spanish version of stir fry.
Many Valencians claim to make the best authentic paella because they define the best paella as being al dente. People in southern part of Spain tend to favor paella that has more of a soup like texture.
An essential ingredient for authentic Barcelona paella is saffron. This gives the paella its wonderful vibrant trademark golden color which it is known for. It also gives the paella a very distinct flavor that will have an aromatic appeal while it is being cooked. Homemade stock also adds to the authenticity of this dish and gives it added flavor. Frying the rice a few minutes before adding the homemade stock will also give it more flavors. What are the most common paellas? There are a variety of different paellas, but the ones that tend to be the most popular and well known are broken into three different categories. Below are the three different types of paellas
Different Versions of Paella: since paella has many different versions, anyone can enjoy this delightful Spanish dish. If you are not a fan of meat or chicken there are also vegetarian versions of paella. You can order one with fresh vegetables sauted to perfection. You can even ask for whole grain rice, which is great for those who are health conscious eaters.
There are also several elements that give paella its own texture and taste. You have the rice which gives the dish consistency and added flavor. The meat, chicken or seafood gives dimension and supplies a good amount of protein. You also have the vegetables which give a nice light yet healthful meal with their own undertones of flavor.
Health conscious people can order paella made strictly with fresh vegetables. They can also ask for whole grain rice as oppose to the short grain rice, which paella is known for.
Paella de Marisco-often referred to as paella mixta contains seafood and chicken, and is considered to be the most popular of paella dishes, especially for tourists.
Paella Vegetariana- is a favorite among avid vegetarians. It contains an array of different vegetables, such as artichokes, eggplant and peppers.
So the next time you travel to Spain try one of the many different versions of paellas. This is one dish that is appealing to both vegetarians and meat lovers. You will be sure to find at least one version of paella that will satisfy your cravings for authentic Spanish cuisine.