Hearty Vegetable and Meat Paella
Imagine a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in one beautiful pan. This Hearty Vegetable and Meat Paella is inspired by traditional Valencian recipes, emphasizing the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Filled with succulent chicken, flavorful chorizo, and a colorful medley of vegetables, this paella is perfect for those who shy away from seafood. The magic lies in the flexibility of the ingredients, allowing you to customize it based on your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Elevate your next gathering with this crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken (portions or pieces)
4-8 (can be breast, leg, or thigh)
onions
2 (chopped)
garlic
1-3 (chopped or crushed)
turmeric
1 teaspoon (powdered)
chorizo sausage
115-250 g (cooked (optional))
rice
250 g (can use brown rice, but expect longer cooking time)
stock
1 liter (chicken or herb stock)
tomatoes
4 (peeled and chopped)
bell pepper
1 (red, yellow, or green, diced)
peas or carrots
1 cup (fresh or frozen)
salt and pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor (optional). In a large paella pan or skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on all sides until golden. Once browned, move the chicken to one side of the pan.
2
Add the chopped onions to the pan, cooking until they are soft and translucent. If you’re using chorizo, add it now to release its seasoning and flavor.
3
Stir in the minced or crushed garlic along with the turmeric, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4
Incorporate the chorizo (if using) and briefly sauté it without boiling, allowing the flavors to meld.
5
Pour in the rice, then add half of the stock to deglaze the pan and mix everything well. For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to splash some balsamic vinegar, red wine, or sherry at this stage.
6
Mix in the chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, and peas (or your choice of vegetables), reserving some pepper slices for garnish.
7
Allow the mixture to simmer on the stovetop or transfer it to the oven at 190°C (375°F). Keep a close eye on the liquid, adding the remaining stock gradually as needed. Remember, once the last ingredients are added, do not stir! The bottom may caramelize, creating a delicious 'socarrat'—a signature of great paella.
8
Once the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors, remove from heat. Garnish with reserved pepper slices, crumbled bacon (optional), and freshly chopped parsley.
9
Serve hot, paired with crusty Spanish or French bread and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Vegetable and Meat Paella?
It is a vibrant, comforting dish inspired by traditional Valencian recipes that combines succulent chicken, flavorful chorizo, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables.
Which chicken cuts are best for this paella?
You can use 4 to 8 pieces of chicken, including breast, leg, or thigh portions.
Does this paella contain seafood?
No, this specific recipe is a meat and vegetable version designed for those who shy away from seafood.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be prepared for a longer cooking time.
What spice gives the rice its color in this recipe?
One teaspoon of powdered turmeric is used to provide flavor and a yellow hue.
How many onions are needed?
The recipe calls for two chopped onions.
What is the recommended cooking temperature for the oven?
If finishing the dish in the oven, set it to 190°C (375°F).
What is a 'socarrat'?
The socarrat is the delicious caramelized layer of rice that forms on the bottom of the pan when the paella is not stirred.
Why should I avoid stirring the paella after adding the final ingredients?
Not stirring allows the bottom of the rice to caramelize and create the signature socarrat.
What type of stock should be used?
You can use one liter of either chicken or herb stock.
Can I add alcohol to the recipe?
Yes, you can splash some red wine, sherry, or balsamic vinegar into the pan when deglazing to add extra flavor.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
Use four tomatoes that have been peeled and chopped.
Is chorizo required for this recipe?
Chorizo is optional, but it is recommended for releasing seasoning and depth of flavor.
How much rice is needed?
The recipe requires 250 grams of rice.
What vegetables are included?
The recipe uses bell peppers, peas, and carrots, but you can use any seasonal vegetables.
Can I use frozen peas and carrots?
Yes, you can use one cup of either fresh or frozen peas or carrots.
What are the suggested garnishes?
Garnish the dish with reserved pepper slices, freshly chopped parsley, and optional crumbled bacon.
How much garlic is used?
Use one to three cloves of garlic, either chopped or crushed.
How do I start the cooking process?
Begin by browning seasoned chicken pieces in oil over medium-high heat until golden.
Should I add all the stock at once?
No, add half the stock initially to deglaze the pan, then add the remaining stock gradually as needed.
What pan is best for this dish?
A large paella pan or a heavy skillet is ideal.
What should the onions look like when cooked?
The onions should be cooked until they are soft and translucent.
What sides go well with this paella?
Serve it hot with crusty Spanish or French bread.
What wine pairs well with this meal?
A glass of white wine is suggested as a perfect pairing.
Is this recipe flexible?
Yes, you can customize the ingredients based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
How much chorizo should I use if I include it?
Use between 115 to 250 grams of cooked chorizo sausage.
What colors of bell peppers can I use?
You can use one red, yellow, or green bell pepper.
When should I add the garlic?
Stir in the garlic after the onions have softened and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include Spanish cuisine, one dish meal, comfort food, and family meal.
Is this a good recipe for gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to prepare and enjoy.