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Paella is probably one of the best loved of all Spanish dishes. The dish originated in the Valencia region and spread across the country ...
Paella is probably one of the best loved of all Spanish dishes. The dish originated in the Valencia region and spread across the country and around the world. The original dish was quite simple, using any meat and vegetables that were to hand. When|As} the popularity grew and the dish spread, many variations came into being.
Basic Paella Recipe
A basic paella recipe is cooked in a paella pot. This is a large, flat, shallow pan. They can be found in kitchen stores or on the internet. The original recipes called for the dish to be cooked over an open fire. The majority of people now cook it on the stove top. In a few areas, the open fire method is still preferred.
There are three major ingredients in the basic recipe. Which are rice, olive oil and saffron. The dish is garnished with both fresh vegetables and rice. The original dish called for whatever meats and vegetables available. There are many variations of the dish using different meats and vegetables.
The basic recipe suggests the meat and vegetable to be stir fried in olive oil. Once this is done, the rice is added to the pot. The boiling stock is then added and the mixture is boiled. When the rice is cooked, the pan is taken from the heat. Once the dish is removed, you need time for the rice to absorb the extra liquid.
Origins and Variations of Paella Recipes
This dish originated in Valencia. Traditionally, people used any meat they had |available}. In the coastal areas, seafood was often used. In other areas, rabbit or duck were often used in the dish. The one constant was that only Valencia rice was used. This dish was often eaten on holidays with friends and family.
The recipe for paella spread from Valencia to other areas of Spain and then it spread through the Philippines, South America and North America as people travelled to and from Spain. As the popularity of the dish spread, more variations were seen. The preparation and serving became more elaborate.
Paella is one of those dishes that improve the next day. As the dish sits, the flavours have a chance to mix together and get stronger. If you miss the festivities you may receive the food in a gift basket the next day. As you travel through the country, sample the local variations. Collect recipes so you canmake a Spanish gift basket .
