Today we celebrate National Spanish Paella Day! This traditional dish is a staple of Spanish cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world. In the United States, paella is becoming increasingly popular. In 2019, it was the third most searched dish on Google. In Spain, paella is a staple of the cuisine and is eaten regularly in homes and restaurants across the country.
The origin of paella is widely contested, with many claiming Spain as the birthplace of this beloved dish. The most widely accepted theory is that it was first created in Valencia, Spain, in the mid–19th century. However, the earliest known recipe for Spanish paella was recorded in the cookbook “Libro de Arte de Cozina” published in 1611. The recipe was for Valencian paella, and included ingredients such as rabbit, snails, chicken, and vegetables. This original recipe has been adapted over time to include ingredients like seafood, saffron, and other seasonings. Many believe that the dish evolved from a peasant meal enjoyed by farmers and laborers in the fields and was made with whatever ingredients they had on hand.
Today, paella is a staple of Spanish cuisine and can be found on restaurant menus all over the world. It is often served as a communal dish, with diners gathering around a large pan filled with the flavorful ingredients. The dish has come to symbolize the warmth and hospitality of Spanish culture, and its popularity is only increasing as more
Classic Paella is traditionally made with rice, vegetables, and seafood or meat. The ingredients vary according to region and family recipes, but it is always cooked over an open flame. The dish is usually served in a large, shallow pan and shared among friends and family. It’s the perfect way to bring people together to enjoy the flavors of Spain.
According to data from the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, the U.S. consumes the most Spanish paella in the world, accounting for nearly one–third of the total global consumption. This translates to over 10,000 metric tons of paella consumed each year. The rest of the world, including countries such as Spain, France, and the United Kingdom, consumes a total of about 25,000 metric tons of paella each year. Nearly 70 million servings of paella are consumed in Spain each year alone.
Fun Facts About Spanish Paella
1. The name “paella” is derived from the Old French word for “pan”.
2. Traditional paella is cooked in a large, shallow pan called a paellera.
3. The classic Valencian paella is made with rice, green beans, white beans, chicken, rabbit, snails, and spices.
4. The most expensive paella ever made was sold for $1,400 in Madrid.
5. The world record for the largest paella ever made was set in Valencia in 2017, with a pan that weighed over 8,000 kilograms.
Spanish Paella Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 12 ounces cooked shrimp
• 12 ounces cooked mussels
• 12 ounces cooked squid
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the rice, broth, bell pepper, tomatoes, paprika, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and saffron. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, covered, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp, mussels, and squid to the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the seafood is heated through. Serve hot.
This holiday is a great excuse to try out a popular Spanish paella recipe at home. Whether you’re using a traditional recipe or experimenting with new flavors, there’s no better way to celebrate National Spanish Paella Day than by making a delicious dish for friends and family to share. Let us know in the comments if Spanish Paella is becoming more popular with you as well.
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