Weeknight Shrimp Paella with Chorizo

Arborio rice aromatic spices chorizo sausage fragrant spices Gluten-Free Instructions nutrition paella history protein-packed Quick and Easy Recipe Shrimp paella Spanish cuisine Spanish flavors Spanish-inspired traditional dish weeknight meal

Posted October 11, 2023 by: Admin #Kitchen

Experience a Spanish fiesta of flavors with our Quick and Easy Weeknight Shrimp Paella with Chorizo. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a protein-packed delight, offering the essence of Spain in every bite. Not only is it a fantastic choice for a well-balanced weeknight dinner, but it also conveniently preserves its delectable taste in the fridge or freezer for future enjoyment.

Weeknight Shrimp Paella

Paella, a traditional Spanish culinary gem hailing from Valencia, ranks among the most renowned offerings in Spanish cuisine. With various versions, spanning from chicken to seafood and more, this dish has an intriguing history. Originally, paella emerged as a meal crafted by farmers and laborers who, over a wood fire, concocted rice dishes infused with any ingredients available. The term “paella” possibly derives from the Arabic word “baqiyah,” meaning “leftovers,” a nod to its humble origins. Alternatively, it may have taken its name from the cooking vessel itself, known as “la patella.”

Today, paella typically sizzles over an open fire in a traditional paella pan, combining a range of ingredients like rice, chicken, fish, shellfish, eel, rabbit, squid, artichokes, snails, beans, peppers, and an array of veggies. Yet, irrespective of your chosen mix, the secret to an exemplary paella lies in the use of medium-grain white rice paired with aromatic spices like saffron and paprika.

Our Easy Shrimp Paella offers a simplified rendition of the traditional paella, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Loaded with Arborio rice, chorizo, shrimp, and aromatic spices, this Weeknight Shrimp Paella ensures a quick and delightful dinner that will win over your entire family.

Weeknight Shrimp Paella

This Spanish-inspired shrimp paella is a fragrant delight, delivering swift and easy preparation. Ready in under half an hour, it presents a mouthwatering gluten-free dining experience that’s bound to captivate your whole family.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion, finely minced
3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
1 large tomato, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
3 ounces of dried chorizo, diced
1 ½ cups of dry Arborio or short-grain white rice
1 ½ teaspoons of paprika
1 pinch of saffron (optional)
¼ teaspoon of sea salt
1 pinch of black pepper
3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup of fresh or frozen peas
1 pound of thawed shrimp

Instructions

In a large cast-iron pan or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender. Incorporate bell pepper and diced chorizo, and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the fat slightly renders and it takes on a golden hue.
Introduce rice, diced tomato, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently for about a minute until the enticing aroma fills the air.
Pour in the broth and saffron (if using) and bring to a simmer. Cover and let it cook without stirring until the rice reaches a tender state, and most of the liquid is absorbed, roughly 18-20 minutes.
Upon reaching this stage, add peas and shrimp, allowing them to rest slightly submerged in the remaining liquid. Cook for an extra 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque.
Season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.