Paella with shrimp and peas

Shrimp and Pea Paella Recipe

Step into a world filled with flavors and colors with this shrimp and pea paella recipe, a dish that blends tradition with modern taste. This iconic meal, which has evolved over the centuries, brings together simple yet refined ingredients, transforming into a true feast for the taste buds. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, this paella is sure to impress.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons 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
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili
- 1 teaspoon saffron
- 800 ml hot chicken broth
- 250 g shrimp, peeled
- 1 can (400 g) peas, drained
- A bunch of parsley, with stems finely chopped and leaves roughly chopped
- Lemon slices, for serving

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the aromatic base
Start by heating a large skillet or a paella pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and wait a few moments until it heats up. When the oil starts to heat, add the chopped white and red onions. Sauté for 5-8 minutes or until they become translucent and slightly golden. This step is essential for building a rich flavor base, so don’t rush.

Step 2: Adding the vegetables
Add the sliced red bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously. The garlic will add an intense note to the dish, while the bell pepper will bring a pleasant sweetness.

Step 3: Cooking the rice
At this point, add the rice to the skillet. Mix it well with the sautéed vegetables and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add the sweet paprika and chili, stirring to ensure an even distribution of spices. These flavors will transform the rice into a delicacy.

Step 4: Infusing with saffron
In a small bowl, soak the saffron in 200 ml of hot chicken broth. This step will enhance the aroma and color of your paella. After a few minutes, add the saffron-infused broth to the skillet. Increase the heat and let it boil for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to be released.

Step 5: Cooking the rice
Add 300 ml of chicken broth and stir. Allow everything to boil for 1-2 minutes, then add the remaining chicken broth. Let it boil until the liquid is almost completely absorbed, and the rice is cooked al dente, about 15-20 minutes. If you notice that the liquid has been absorbed before the rice is fully cooked, you can add a little water to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Adding the final ingredients
When the rice is nearly done, add the shrimp, peas, and chopped parsley. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients, then cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the shrimp to cook perfectly and absorb the savory flavors.

Step 7: Serving
Once the dish is ready, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the paella with lemon slices on the side, which will add a note of freshness and acidity, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the dish.

Practical Tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some green or black olives, which will bring a pleasant contrast.
- Substitute the shrimp with other seafood, such as squid or mussels, for a different variation.
- Paella is a perfect dish to cook in larger quantities, being ideal for parties or gatherings with friends.

Nutritional Benefits:
This shrimp and pea paella is not only delicious but also healthy. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 and B vitamins. Peas add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use basmati rice instead of long-grain rice?
Yes, but the cooking time may vary, so be attentive to the instructions on the package.

- Is it possible to make a vegetarian paella?
Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms, and the chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth.

- What type of wine should I serve with paella?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will pair perfectly with the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestion:
For a special culinary experience, you can add a light green salad with lemon dressing and a side of garlic toast.

Shrimp and pea paella is a recipe that brings joy and conviviality to the table. I encourage you to experiment and play with the ingredients, creating unique versions that reflect your personal taste. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!