Vegetable Paella with Saffron and Paprika
Paella, the iconic Spanish rice dish, is typically made with seafood or meat. But this vegetarian version is just as flavorful and satisfying, thanks to the use of a variety of vegetables and spices. The Bomba or Valencia rice is a short-grain variety that absorbs the flavorful broth and becomes plump and tender. The saffron and paprika add a vibrant color and a subtle, yet complex flavor. And the vegetables—bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic—provide a hearty and healthy base for the dish.
Paella is a dish that has been around for centuries, and there are many different stories about its origins. One popular story is that paella was first created by farmers in the Valencia region of Spain. These farmers would often cook their midday meal in a large pan over an open fire, using whatever ingredients they had on hand. Over time, paella became a popular dish all over Spain, and it is now considered to be one of the country's national dishes.
Vegetable Paella with Saffron and Paprika Vegetable Paella with Saffron and Paprika Vegetable Paella with Saffron and Paprika Vegetable Paella with Saffron and Paprika
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Bomba or Valencia rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Add the bell peppers and zucchini and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute.
  6. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Why It Works
  • The Bomba or Valencia rice is a short-grain variety that absorbs the flavorful broth and becomes plump and tender.
  • The saffron and paprika add a vibrant color and a subtle, yet complex flavor.
  • The vegetables—bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic—provide a hearty and healthy base for the dish.