Flavor Explosion of Paella: Under an Hour

Happy Tuesday everyone! So as I mentioned yesterday, today I bring you a delicious (and surprisingly easy) paella recipe. I have fond memories of going to the restaurant Jaleo, and this recipe comes from its restauranteur, Jose Andres. It takes about half an hour to make this flavorful, easy dish. I used 1/2 lb each of squid, scallops, and shrimp. You can try what you like!

Smoky Paella with Shrimp and Squid
Jose Andres

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound large shrimp, shelled and deveined
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 cup arborio or Valencia rice
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon hot smoked paprika
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1 small pinch of saffron, crumbled
• 2 cups clam broth
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 pound baby squid, bodies cut into 1/4-inch rings

Directions

1. In a large, deep skillet, heat the oil until shimmering. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Cook over high heat until lightly browned on one side, 2 minutes. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
2. Add the rice to the skillet and cook, stirring, until opaque, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, garlic and saffron and cook, stirring, until the rice is toasted and sizzling, about 1 minute. Add the clam broth and water and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil until the rice is still a bit crunchy and about half of the broth is absorbed, 10 minutes. Lower the heat and simmer until the rice is nearly tender and the liquid is soupy but slightly reduced, about 8 minutes. Stir in the squid, then lay the shrimp on top, cooked side up. Cover and simmer until the squid and shrimp are cooked through and the rice is tender, about 2 minutes longer.

Lizzy Bee's Note: As it sits, the paella absorbs the juices. It's best not to overcook it - it will be the perfect consistency if follow Jose's directions: just be sure to cook your seafood all the way through!