A Taste of Spain, From Your Own Kitchen 🇪🇸
Paella isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. Born in the sun-drenched fields of Valencia, paella has become one of Spain’s most iconic meals, celebrated around the world for its bold flavours, colourful ingredients, and social nature.
But here’s the best part: you don’t need to hop on a plane to enjoy it. With the right paella pan, a few staple ingredients, and a sprinkle of patience, you can bring the magic of Spanish cookware straight into your home.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make authentic Spanish paella at home—no passport required.
What Makes Paella So Special?
At its core, paella is a one-pan rice dish built on layers of flavour. Traditionally cooked outdoors over open flames, paella combines rice, stock, saffron, and a variety of proteins (think: chicken, seafood, or rabbit), all simmered in harmony until a golden, crispy bottom—called socarrat—forms. That crispy base? It’s pure gold.
The name "paella" actually comes from the pan itself, not the dish. Which brings us to…
Choosing the Right Paella Pan
The paella pan is more than just a vessel—it’s the star of the show. Here's what makes it essential:
âś… Wide & Shallow Design
Paella pans are flat and shallow, allowing the rice to cook evenly and form that signature crispy layer. A deeper pan won’t achieve the same result.
âś… Material Matters
-
Carbon Steel (traditional): Conducts heat quickly and evenly. Needs seasoning. Check the Pujadas Paella Pan here.
-
Enameled Steel: Easier to maintain, rust-resistant, perfect for beginners.
-
Stainless Steel: Sleek and durable, but tends to heat unevenly.
These paella pans are designed for modern stovetops and home ovens—making it easier than ever to master this dish at home.
✨ Tip: When choosing the best pan for paella, consider the number of servings. A 32cm pan is great for 2–4 people. Larger families? Go bigger.
Essential Ingredients for Traditional Paella
While there are many versions (seafood, chicken, vegetarian, even squid ink), these ingredients are key to most authentic recipes:
-
Bomba or Calasparra Rice: Short-grain rice that absorbs liquid without turning mushy
-
Saffron Threads: Adds earthy aroma and golden colour
-
Stock (Chicken, Fish or Veg): Infuses flavour into the rice
-
Smoked Paprika (PimentĂłn): Gives it a subtle, smoky warmth
-
Olive Oil: Always extra virgin, always Spanish if you can
The Step-by-Step: How to Cook Paella Like a Spaniard
1. Sear Your Protein
Brown chicken thighs, chorizo, or seafood in olive oil. This builds the first layer of flavour.
2. Sofrito is Sacred
This is the aromatic base: onions, garlic, tomatoes, and paprika, slow-cooked until soft and fragrant.
3. Add Rice and Toast It
Stir in your rice and let it toast slightly in the sofrito—this adds nutty depth.
4. Pour in Stock & Saffron
Add warm stock and saffron. Gently shake the pan to distribute the rice. Do not stir after this step!
5. Let it Simmer (and Don’t Touch It)
Simmer uncovered on medium heat. The rice should absorb all the liquid and form a crust on the bottom.
6. Rest Before Serving
Remove from heat and cover with foil or a clean tea towel. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before digging in.
How to Care for Your Paella Pan
To keep your pan in top condition:
-
Enameled Steel: Wash with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly. Avoid steel wool.
-
Carbon Steel: Wash, dry immediately, and rub with oil to prevent rust.
-
Store Flat: Avoid warping by storing on a flat surface.
Paella Tips from Our Kitchen
-
No Lid Needed: Paella is traditionally cooked uncovered.
-
Don’t Stir: Once the stock is in, let it be.
-
Use a Cross Burner (If You Can): If you're cooking outdoors, a ring burner gives even heat.
-
Double Down on Socarrat: Listen for the subtle crackling sound—it’s a sign the bottom is crisping beautifully.
Why Paella Is More Than a Meal
Paella is a communal dish meant to be shared. It brings people together, sparks conversation, and turns dinner into an event. Whether you serve it with a glass of sangria on a warm evening or bring it to your winter dinner table, paella feels like a celebration.
With the right Spanish cookware and a little know-how, you can recreate that magic in your own kitchen—and turn every Sunday into a mini fiesta.
🛍️ Ready to Cook?
Explore our handcrafted paella pans made for home cooks who want the real deal—without the fuss.
You don’t need to travel far to experience the warmth of Spanish cooking. With high-quality ingredients, a proper paella pan, and a pinch of confidence, you can bring that golden, flavour-packed dish straight to your table.
So pour the wine, put on your apron, and get ready to paella like a pro.