Prawn and Chorizo Paella

Introduction

Prawn and Chorizo Paella is a classic Spanish dish that is sure to delight any crowd. This hearty and flavorful combination of ingredients is perfect for any special occasion or weeknight dinner. The combination of chorizo sausage, shrimp, and rice creates a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to please. The addition of smoked paprika and saffron threads adds a unique flavour to the dish that is sure to make it stand out. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will be the star of any dinner table. 

Ease of preparation

Prawn and Chorizo Paella is an easy dish to prepare. All you need to do is sauté the chorizo, onion, and garlic in the olive oil until the sausage is lightly browned. Then, add the rice and stir to combine. Next, add the smoked paprika, saffron threads, chicken broth, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Finally, add the bell pepper, shrimp, and frozen peas, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for added flavour.

Nutritional information

Prawn and Chorizo Paella is a nutritious and flavorful dish. One serving contains approximately 420 calories, 17 grams of fat, 39 grams of carbohydrates, and 22 grams of protein. It is also a good source of fibre, vitamins A and C, and minerals such as iron and potassium.

Ingredients

-1 lb of chorizo sausage, cut into 1/4-inch slices

-1/4 cup olive oil

-1 large onion, finely chopped

-3 cloves garlic, minced

-2 cups short-grain Spanish rice

-1 teaspoon smoked paprika

-1 teaspoon saffron threads

-4 cups chicken broth

-1/2 cup white wine

-1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

-1 lb of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

-1/2 cup frozen peas

-1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

-Lemon wedges for serving

Preparation Method

To prepare Prawn and Chorizo Paella, begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo sausage and cook, occasionally stirring, until lightly browned. Next, add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is softened.

Add the rice and stir to combine. Add the smoked paprika, saffron threads, chicken broth, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Finally, add the bell pepper, shrimp, and frozen peas, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for added flavour.

Cooking Tips

When making Prawn and Chorizo Paella, it is important to use short-grain Spanish rice for the best results. This type of rice is more starchy and will help create a creamy texture in the dish. It is also important to use good quality chorizo sausage for the best flavour.

Flavour/Taste

Prawn and Chorizo Paella is a flavorful and comforting dish. The combination of chorizo sausage, shrimp, and rice creates a savoury and hearty meal. The addition of smoked paprika and saffron threads adds a unique flavour to the dish that is sure to make it stand out. The lemon wedges provide a bright and acidic flavour that complements the dish perfectly.

Best dishes paired with

Prawn and Chorizo Paella pairs well with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great accompaniment. A crusty loaf of bread is also a great option for soaking up the flavorful sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini are a great option.

Origin of dish and history

Prawn and Chorizo Paella is a classic Spanish dish that has been around for centuries. The dish originated in Valencia, Spain and is traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, or duck. The addition of chorizo sausage, shrimp, and other ingredients is a more modern variation of the dish.

Popular alternatives

Prawn and Chorizo Paella can be made with a variety of ingredients. For a vegetarian version of the dish, try substituting the chorizo sausage with mushrooms and the shrimp with tofu. For a seafood version, try adding mussels, clams, or squid. For a heartier version, try adding cooked chicken or pork.