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Springtime Paella

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish of saffron-infused rice cooked with a variety of meats and vegetables. It varies from season to season and from region to region in Spain. A good paella often contains some crunchy, toasted rice on the bottom of the pot as a counterpoint to the smooth grains. Typical paellas include a mix of proteins such as chorizo sausage, shrimp, and mussels along with chicken. Feel free to mix and match, using a total of 1/2 to 3/4 pound. This version takes advantage of the springtime arrival of fresh peas and morel mushrooms. To add a bright note to this recipe, include the grated zest of half a lemon sprinkled on the mushroom layer. Consider substituting white wine for some or all of the liquid.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 2

Ingredients

Olive oil spray
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 medium onion, sliced thinly
1 cup Arborio or paella rice
1 small pinch saffron threads
1/4 teaspoon paprika, preferably Spanish smoked pimentón
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon broth (chicken or vegetable) or water, or a mix
1/2 to 3/4 pound chicken breasts or thighs
Sea salt
1/2 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
3 to 5 morel mushrooms, chopped, optional
8 to 10 cremini mushrooms, sliced
4 to 6 fresh thyme sprigs

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 450°F.

    Step 2

    Spray the inside and lid of a cast-iron Dutch oven with olive oil.

    Step 3

    Scatter the garlic and onion in the pot.

    Step 4

    Rinse the rice in a strainer until the water runs clear, then add the rice to the pot. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the rice in an even layer.

    Step 5

    Add the saffron, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the broth and stir before pouring into the pot.

    Step 6

    Add the chicken and season lightly with salt. Cover with a layer of bell pepper, followed by the peas and mushrooms. Set the thyme sprigs on top.

    Step 7

    Cover and bake for about 45 minutes, or until 3 minutes after the aroma of a fully cooked meal escapes the oven. Fluff the rice and serve immediately.

  2. nutrition information

    Step 8

    Calories: 608

    Step 9

    Protein: 10g

    Step 10

    Carbohydrates: 97g

    Step 11

    Fat: 4g

    Step 12

    Cholesterol: 88mg

    Step 13

    Sodium: 173mg

    Step 14

    Fiber: 4g

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