Healthy & Special Diets > Allergy-Friendly Recipes > Shellfish-Free Recipes > Alternatives to Shellfish Flavor

Shellfish-Free Paella with Saffron and Smoked Paprika

A vibrant and flavorful paella that captures the essence of seafood without any shellfish. This recipe uses saffron, smoked paprika, and a carefully crafted vegetable broth to mimic the depth of flavor traditionally found in paella.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 2 cups Arborio Rice
  • 6 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon Saffron Threads
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 medium, chopped Onion
  • 1 medium, chopped Red Bell Pepper
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas
  • 1 can (14 oz), quartered Artichoke Hearts
  • 1 cut into wedges Lemon
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Prepare the Broth

Begin by heating the vegetable broth in a saucepan. Add the saffron threads and smoked paprika to the broth. Simmer on low heat to infuse the flavors. This step is crucial for creating the seafood-like depth in the paella.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large paella pan or wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy and adds a nutty flavor.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour the saffron-infused broth over the rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed. Avoid stirring the paella during cooking to create a socarrat (the crispy bottom layer).

Incorporate Vegetables

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and artichoke hearts. Cook until heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and let the paella rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 150 kcal, Carbohydrates: 25g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 4g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Adjust salt according to your dietary needs. You can add other vegetables like green beans or asparagus to increase the nutritional value.

← Shellfish-Free Pad Thai: A Flavorful and Safe Thai Dish Shellfish-Free Paella: A Safe and Delicious Alternative →

FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of rice?

    While Arborio rice is traditional for paella, you can use other short-grain rice varieties like Bomba rice. However, cooking times may vary.
  • How do I create a socarrat?

    To create a socarrat (the crispy bottom layer), avoid stirring the paella while it cooks and increase the heat slightly during the last few minutes of cooking. Listen for a crackling sound.
  • Can I add protein to this paella?

    Yes, you can add chicken, chorizo (ensure it's shellfish-free), or white fish to the paella for added protein.