Paella: Spain’s Iconic Rice Dish – History, Recipes & Essential Ingredients from Dos Olivos Markets

Paella is one of Spain’s most celebrated dishes—a vibrant, colorful, and flavorful rice creation that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine. Known for its golden hue, aromatic spices, and rich medley of meats, seafood, and vegetables, paella has become a worldwide favorite. Whether you’re searching for “paella recipe,” “authentic paella,” “seafood paella,” or “paella ingredients,” this guide covers everything you need to know, from history to recipes to sourcing the best ingredients from Dos Olivos Markets.

A Short History of Paella

Paella originated in Valencia in the 19th century, created by farm workers who cooked rice over an open fire using fresh, local ingredients. Early versions included rabbit, chicken, snails, beans, and vegetables—all seasoned with saffron and olive oil. The name “paella” refers to the wide, shallow pan in which it is prepared, allowing the rice to cook evenly and develop the famous socarrat—the crispy, caramelized bottom layer that paella lovers treasure.

Over time, paella evolved into several regional variations, each reflecting local tastes and ingredients. While the original Paella Valenciana remains the benchmark, seafood paellas, mixed paellas, and vegetarian options have gained international popularity.

Popular Types of Paella

• Valencian Paella (Paella Valenciana): The classic recipe with chicken, rabbit, green beans, lima beans, saffron, and short-grain rice.

• Seafood Paella (Paella de Marisco): A coastal favorite featuring shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and fish, often without meat.

• Mixed Paella (Paella Mixta): A combination of meats, seafood, and vegetables, offering a rich variety of textures and flavors.

• Vegetable Paella (Paella de Verduras): A colorful vegetarian version using seasonal produce, perfect for lighter meals.

Must-Have Paella Ingredients from Dos Olivos Markets

For a truly authentic paella, ingredient quality is just as important as the recipe. Dos Olivos Markets offers premium, imported Spanish ingredients that ensure your paella tastes as it should—rich, aromatic, and full of depth.

• Bomba Rice or Calasparra Rice: These short-grain rices absorb flavor beautifully while maintaining a firm texture. Click here to buy.

• Spanish Saffron: Known for its intense color and delicate aroma, saffron is the signature spice that defines paella. Click here to buy.

• Smoked Paprika (Pimentón de la Vera): Adds a warm, smoky note to the base sofrito. Click here to buy.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing meats, seafood, and vegetables, and for infusing richness into the rice. Click here to buy.

• Paella Pan: A wide, shallow steel pan that ensures even cooking and the perfect socarrat. Click here to buy.

• Paella Cooking Kits: Convenient all-in-one sets with rice, saffron, paprika, and olive oil—ideal for home cooks or gifting. Click here to buy.

Tips for Perfect Paella Every Time

• Use short-grain Spanish rice for the right texture.

• Do not stir the rice once the liquid is added; this helps form the socarrat.

• Cook over even heat—traditionally over an open flame, but a gas burner works well.

• Let the paella rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Why Paella is Perfect for Any Occasion

Paella is more than a dish—it’s a social experience. Traditionally cooked outdoors in large pans, it’s meant for sharing with family and friends. It works just as well for a weeknight family dinner as it does for entertaining guests. With Dos Olivos Markets’ authentic ingredients, you can recreate the flavors of Spain in your own kitchen, whether you’re making a traditional Valencian version, a seafood feast, or a hearty mixed paella.