Meta Description: Discover how to make a traditional Valencian seafood paella with king prawns and mussels. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any seafood lover!
Ingredients:
For the Paella:
2 cups of Bomba or Arborio rice
4 cups of fish or seafood stock
1 lb (450g) king prawns, peeled and deveined
1 lb (450g) mussels, cleaned and debearded
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 medium tomatoes, grated (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Stock:
In a pot, heat the fish or seafood stock and keep it warm over low heat. If using saffron, steep it in the warm stock for added flavor.
Cook the Base:
In a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes:
Stir in the grated tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together.
Add the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan, stirring well to coat it with the tomato mixture. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the rice to toast for about 2 minutes.
Pour in the Stock:
Gradually pour in the warm seafood stock, ensuring an even distribution. Do not stir the rice once the stock is added. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the Seafood:
After about 10 minutes of simmering, add the king prawns and mussels on top of the rice. Gently press them into the mixture. Continue cooking without stirring for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Rest the Paella:
Once the paella is cooked, remove it from the heat and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or foil. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
Garnish the paella with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Valencian seafood paella with king prawns and mussels!
Tips for Perfect Paella:
Use the Right Rice: Bomba rice is traditional for paella as it absorbs liquid well without becoming mushy.
Avoid Stirring: Once you add the stock, refrain from stirring to develop the signature socarrat (crispy bottom).
Customize Your Seafood: Feel free to add other seafood like calamari or clams for more variety.
This Delicious Valencian Seafood Paella with King Prawns and Mussels is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it captures the essence of Spanish cuisine. Try this recipe today and savor the flavors of the sea!