Fideuà with seafood

Fideua with seafood

If you're looking for an enticing recipe that brings Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen, then fideua with seafood is the perfect choice. This delicacy, similar to paella but with a different texture and a juicier taste, will transform your meals into a true feast for the senses. Originating from Spanish culinary culture, fideua has evolved as a simple yet characterful street food full of flavors.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party with friends. Get ready to be transported to the Spanish gastronomic world with every bite!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 g fideua pasta (small, curved tubes)
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a spicy taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- A pinch of coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron
- 1 tablespoon paella spice mix
- 1-2 tablespoons chili paste (optional, for extra heat)
- 200 g fresh shrimp, peeled
- 200 g fresh clams
- 1 liter fish stock (made with 50 ml white wine)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients are prepared and within reach. Clean the shrimp and clams, chop the garlic and red bell pepper. It's essential to be organized, as cooking fideua happens quickly.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pan (ideally a wok), pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Extra virgin olive oil not only adds a wonderful flavor but is also healthy, being rich in monounsaturated fats.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper and finely chopped chili pepper. Sprinkle a little coarse salt to help release the flavors. Let them sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly soft.

4. Adding the pasta: Now, add the fideua pasta to the pan. Let it soak up the flavors of the vegetables and oil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant texture.

5. Preparing the fish stock: In another container, prepare the fish stock by adding the stock powder to one liter of water, then add 50 ml of white wine. This mixture will add depth of flavor, and the wine will enhance the taste of every bite.

6. Adding the stock and spices: Pour the fish stock over the pasta, then add the paella spice mix and saffron. Let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes until the pasta absorbs some of the liquid.

7. Including the seafood: Once the pasta has started to swell, add the shrimp and clams. These need to be cooked quickly, so cover the pan with a lid and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until the clams open. Make sure not to overcook them, or they will become rubbery.

8. Finishing the dish: If you like spicy flavors, add the chili paste now. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes.

9. Serving: Fideua is served hot, drizzled with a little lemon juice, which will enhance the flavors. You can pair it with a Spanish white wine that will perfectly complement the dish.

Useful tips:

- Customizing the recipe: Fideua is very versatile! You can experiment with various combinations of seafood or even with meat, such as chicken or chorizo sausage. Each variation will bring a different note to the dish.
- Storing ingredients: If you don't have access to fresh seafood, you can use frozen, but make sure to thaw them beforehand for better texture.
- Cooking time: Pay attention to the cooking time of the pasta and seafood. It's essential not to overcook them to maintain juiciness.

Nutritional information:

Fideua with seafood is rich in protein due to the seafood content, while the pasta provides the necessary carbohydrates for energy. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and the vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals. This recipe can have approximately 450 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of seafood.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of pasta, but make sure to adjust the cooking time.

2. Can fideua be prepared in advance?
It is recommended to serve it fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them quickly when you're ready to cook.

3. What side dishes go well?
A fresh green salad or an aioli sauce are excellent side dishes that complement this dish.

4. What wine pairs best?
A dry white wine, such as a Verdejo or Albariño, will perfectly complement the flavors of the fideua.

I invite you to try this recipe for fideua with seafood and enjoy a unique culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, each bite will be an explosion of flavors and textures, bringing a touch of Mediterranean sunshine into your home. Enjoy your meal!