Cook & Travel
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Elite Masterclass

Paella Valenciana

A masterclass in the authentic Spanish coastal tradition. Perfecting the art of saffron-infused rice and the legendary socarrat.

timer 45m Prep
skillet Medium Difficulty
eco Sustainability: 9.2

shopping_basket Ingredients

  • 400g

    Bomba Rice

    The gold standard for absorption

  • 1g

    Saffron Threads

    Genuine Spanish strands

  • 500g

    Mixed Seafood

    King prawns, mussels, and squid

  • 250g

    Organic Chicken

    Thigh meat for maximum flavor

  • 1 Sprig

    Fresh Rosemary

    Harvested locally

  • 100ml

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    First cold press

lightbulb Expert Pro-Tip

"Never stir the rice once the broth has been added. This allows the starch to settle and form the essential socarrat at the base."

The Masterclass Journey

1

Searing the Proteins

Heat the olive oil in a wide paella pan. Sear the chicken until deeply golden and crispy. Remove and set aside. Briefly sauté the seafood until just pink, then reserve.

2

The Sofrito & Saffron Base

In the same oil, sauté finely diced onions and peppers until translucent. Stir in the rice to toast it slightly, then add the saffron-infused broth. Bring to a simmer.

3

The Absorption Phase

Arrange the chicken and seafood atop the rice. Add the rosemary sprig. Simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed by the Bomba rice.

Achieving the Perfect Socarrat

In the final 2 minutes, increase the heat slightly. You should hear a gentle crackling sound. This is the caramelization of the bottom layer of rice—the legendary socarrat.

+12
Learned by 1,200 students

Sustainability Score

9.2
  • check_circle Locally Sourced Rice
  • check_circle MSC Certified Seafood
  • check_circle Low Carbon Footprint Prep