Marisquiño Paella

Introduction to Marisquiño Paella

Marisquiño Paella, a wonderful fusion of the sea's bounty, hails from the coastal regions of Spain. Known for its rich variation and adherence to tradition, this delectable dish beautifully combines saffron infused rice with an array of fresh seafood, reflective of the Mediterranean's abundant offerings. Originating in Valencia, paella itself stands as a symbol of Spanish culture, a dish historically prepared by farmers and fishermen, originally concocted with whatever ingredients were on hand. Over centuries, it evolved into an iconic Spanish staple with regional variations, and Marisquiño Paella highlights the sea’s treasures.

Ingredients

• Rice - 2 cups, preferably Bomba or similar short-grain rice
• Saffron - a small pinch, to infuse color and flavor
• Olive oil - 4 tablespoons for sautéing
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Tomato - 2 ripe, peeled and chopped
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Shrimp - 1 pound, peeled and deveined
• Mussels - 1 pound, cleaned
• Clams - 1 pound, cleaned
• Squid - 1 pound, cleaned and cut into rings
• Fish stock - 4 cups
• Chopped parsley - for garnish
• Lemon wedges - to serve
• Salt and pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by soaking the saffron in a small bowl with a few tablespoons of warm water. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the tomatoes and paprika. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and most of the liquid has evaporated.

Cooking Method

1. Add the cleaned squid rings to the pan. Stir them in, cooking until they are firm and opaque.
2. Add the rice to the pan, stirring well to coat each grain in the flavorful oils and spices.
3. Pour in the saffron infused water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Ladle in the fish stock, gently stirring to combine. Let this mixture come to a slight boil.
5. Add the shrimp, mussels, and clams into the rice, nestling them so they are slightly covered by the stock. Reduce to low heat, cover the pan with a lid or foil, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes.
6. During this time, set up a cooking timer to help keep track.
7. Turn off the heat and let the paella sit for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the Marisquiño Paella and garnish with lemon wedges to enhance the seafood flavors. Serve immediately, pairing this delightful dish with a chilled glass of Spanish white wine or a crisp rosé. Enjoy the paella in the traditional Spanish way, directly from the pan, sharing amongst family and friends, to bask in the communal spirit that paella embodies.