The Ultimate Guide to Authentic Valencian Paella: A Traditional Spanish Recipe

PRINT RECIPE

If you’ve ever dreamt of cooking an authentic Spanish dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, look no further than Paella Valenciana. This iconic dish, born in the heart of Valencia, is more than just a meal—it's a symbol of culture, history, and communal celebration.

Let’s dive into the rich tradition of paella, explore the ingredients that make it so special, and walk through a step-by-step recipe that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched coast of Spain.

The History of Valencian Paella

Paella originated in the Valencia region of Spain, where farmers and field workers would cook rice with whatever ingredients they had on hand—typically rabbit, chicken, and vegetables. Cooked over an open flame in a wide, shallow pan (the paellera), this dish became a cherished part of Spanish culture and is now recognized globally as Spain’s national dish.

The true Paella Valenciana is all about simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Ingredients for cooking: raw chicken pieces, green beans, broth, rice, garlic, saffron, olive oil, spices, and tomatoes.

Authentic Valencian Paella Ingredients

Creating an authentic paella requires using traditional ingredients that define its flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1¾ cups Paella Rice (350 grams)—Bomba rice or another short-grain rice variety that absorbs liquid without turning mushy.

• 1.3 pounds chicken thighs (preferably with skin on)—for rich, juicy flavor.

• 10 pods Romano Green Beans (150 grams)—a signature vegetable in traditional paella.

• 1 tomato, grated (discard the skin)—for a natural sweetness and acidity.

• ⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (40 ml)—use the best quality you can find.

• 5-6 cups chicken stock (1.2-1.5 liters)—homemade stock adds depth.

• 2 garlic cloves—finely chopped for aromatic intensity.

• 1 teaspoon salt—to season perfectly.

• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika—adds a gentle, smoky warmth.

• 1 teaspoon saffron—the key to paella’s golden hue and subtle earthiness.

Taste Without Borders

Buy Now

Optional traditional ingredients:

• Garrofo beans or lime beans—add creaminess and texture.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Authentic Valencian Paella

Step 1: Prepare the Paella Pan

Start by heating the olive oil in your pan over medium-high heat. The wide surface area is essential for even cooking and achieving the perfect socarrat—the crispy layer of rice at the bottom.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on all sides. This step adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the Romano green beans and cook for a few minutes until slightly tender. Then, stir in the grated tomato and garlic. Let the mixture simmer until the tomato reduces and intensifies in flavor.

Step 4: Season and Add the Stock

Sprinkle in the salt, sweet paprika, and saffron. Stir to combine. Pour in the hot chicken stock and let it come to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Evenly distribute the paella rice across the ppanbut ddo notstir after this point! Stirring disrupts the formation of the socarrat, which is a prized part of authentic paella.

Step 6: Let It Cook

Reduce the heat and let the paella cook for about 20–25 minutes. As the stock absorbs, the rice will cook through, and the flavors will concentrate.

Step 7: The Socarrat (Optional but Essential)

If you want to achieve the crispy, caramelized rice layer at the bottom, increase the heat for the last 1-2 minutes. You’ll hear a gentle crackling sound—that's your sign that the socarrat is forming!

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and let the paella rest, covered with a clean kitchen towel,

for 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish absorbing the flavors and firms up the texture.

Tips for Perfect Paella

• Use the Right Rice: Bomba rice or Calasparra rice are the best options for authentic texture.

• Cook Over an Open Flame: If possible, cook your paella outdoors over a wood fire for that classic smoky flavor.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: The rice should cook in a single, even layer.

• Be patient: Paella is a slow-cooked dish meant to be savored, so take your time.

Why You Should Try Cooking Valencian Paella

Cooking paella at home is not just about making a meal—it's about creating an experience. The process brings people together, whether you’re sharing it with family or hosting a dinner party with friends. Plus, the vibrant colors, rich aromas, and satisfying flavors make it a dish that never fails to impress.

By mastering this traditional Spanish paella recipe, you’re honoring a culinary legacy and bringing a piece of Spain to your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Authentic Valencian paella is a celebration of simplicity and tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying paella for the first time, following this recipe will guide you to create a dish bursting with authentic flavors and history.

So grab your paellera, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

#PaellaValenciana #SpanishCuisine #AuthenticPaella #MediterraneanDiet #HealthyRecipes #TraditionalRecipes #HomeCooking #FoodPhotography #TasteOfSpain

The Ultimate Guide to Authentic Valencian Paella: A Traditional Spanish Recipe