Shrimp and Pea Paella

Shrimp and Pea Paella Recipe

Discover the magic of preparing a shrimp and pea paella, a Mediterranean dish that brings together vibrant flavors and bright colors, turning any meal into a celebration. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress with a special lunch or dinner, as well as for those seeking a quick and delicious idea for a family evening. Start your culinary journey and get ready to delight your taste buds!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250 g long-grain rice (ideal for paella)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon saffron (for color and flavor)
- 800 ml hot chicken broth
- 250 g shrimp, peeled
- 1 can (400 g) peas, drained
- A bunch of parsley, finely chopped stems, and coarsely chopped leaves
- Lemon slices, for serving

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the aromatic base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the white and red onions, along with the sliced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-8 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The olive oil will not only add a distinct flavor but also help caramelize the vegetables, giving them a sweet note.

2. Adding the rice:
Once the vegetables are ready, add the rice to the pan. Stir well, ensuring that each grain of rice is coated with oil and the flavors from the pan. Add the sweet paprika and chili, sautéing everything for 1-2 minutes. This will help release the flavors and give the rice a beautiful color.

3. Infusing with saffron:
In a small bowl, soak the saffron in 200 ml of hot chicken broth. This step is essential for extracting the intense flavor and vibrant color of the saffron. After waiting a few minutes, add the mixture to the pan.

4. Adding the liquid:
Increase the temperature and let the mixture boil for 1 minute. Then, add another 300 ml of chicken broth. Stir well and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes. Finally, add the remaining broth. It is important not to stir the rice too much after this point to achieve that perfect texture.

5. Cooking the rice:
Let everything boil, reducing the temperature to medium, until the liquid is almost completely absorbed by the rice. This step may take about 10-15 minutes. If you notice that the rice is becoming too dry and the liquid is not fully absorbed, add a little hot water to prevent sticking.

6. Adding the shrimp and peas:
Once the rice is almost done, add the shrimp, peas, and chopped parsley. Gently stir to combine the ingredients and cover the pan with a lid. Let everything simmer for 5-10 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

7. Serving:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the paella with lemon slices on the side to add a touch of acidity that will balance the rich flavors of the dish. A garnish of fresh green salad or a platter of tapenade will perfectly complement the meal.

Useful tips:

- About the rice: Use long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Thai rice, which absorbs liquid without sticking. Avoid short-grain rice, which can become sticky.
- Variations: You can add seasonal vegetables such as green bell pepper, zucchini, or olives to diversify the recipe. Even a few pieces of white fish can complement this dish.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use frozen shrimp?* Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them before adding them to the recipe.
- *How can I make the paella spicier?* Add more chili or even a few slices of fresh hot pepper.
- *What drinks pair well?* A dry white wine or a lightly fruity sangria are excellent options that complement the flavors of the paella.

Nutritional benefits:

This shrimp and pea paella is not only delicious but also healthy. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and low in calories. Peas add fiber and essential vitamins, while rice provides complex carbohydrates necessary for energy.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Don't forget to enjoy every step of the process and share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!