Last Updated on June 22, 2023
Paella is known throughout the world as Spain’s national dish. Interestingly, most Spanish people regard the dish as a regional dish native to Valencia, a city on Spain’s eastern coast. Indeed, the dish gained popularity in the 19th century and originated from lake Albufera, a beautiful stretch of water about 8 miles south of Valencia.
What Makes a Great Paella?
Traditionally there are three types of paella. They are:
- Seafood paella– Generally you’ll find various seafood delights with the rice. Traditionally seafood paella doesn’t include vegetables.
- Valencia paella– Here, you’ll find various meats such as rabbit, chicken, duck, beans, land snails, and seasoning.
- Mixed paella– This type of paella is a free for all where chefs can go wild and add anything they liked.
In all the dishes you’ll find bomba or calasparra rice, saffron, and olive oil.
Visit Valencia provides an authentic paella Valencia recipe if you feel like trying your hand at cooking this wonderful dish.
The great thing about paella is that you are free to create any kind of dish you like. So if you’re a vegan, vegetarian, you can adjust to your taste. It is very versatile. If you’re feeling ambitious, why not create your own seasonings?
Why is it Called Paella?
Interestingly the paella pan came before the paella. Paella comes from the Latin word for pan or dish. So Valencia’s national dish was actually named after the pan it is cooked in. Most believe it is the other way round.
When do Valencians Eat Paella?
As the dish is considered heavy as it is packed with carbohydrates, most eat it at lunch. It is considered unsuitable for evening consumption.
Paella Has a Day
Perhaps not an amazing revelation, but it is true that paella has a day. On March 27th you’ll find millions of people celebrating National Paella Day, making their favorite version and feasting with friends and family sharing a glass of wine or two!
The Largest Paella of all Time
Juan Galbis, a Valencian restauranteur, fed 110,000 people with what is considered to be the largest paella of all time. The amazing culinary feat happened on October 2nd, 2001. Galbis, together with his workers, produced the dish.
Paella and Lifestyle
Paella like other rice and pasta dishes is great for special events such as birthdays, but they are also good to usher in the weekend. It is very easy to make, and you’ll soon find you’ll be perfecting your own flavors.
It is not only super tasty, but you can feed a lot of people at a low cost making it ideal for families. Paella fits in with you and your lifestyle beautifully.
If you want to know more about Valencia’s finest dish, here are things that you didn’t know about paella which will make your mouth water.
Visit Valencia for the Authentic Paella Experience
If you want the best Paella experience you can have, go to the home of the dish, on the Visit Valencia website you can found the best places to eat this delicious dish. The city has some wonderful experiences, whether you are flying alone or traveling with the family. The city is packed with culture and beautiful things to see. It really has something for everyone.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s available:
- Plazas– Valencia is famous for its plazas and many leads into and out of the old town, arguably the most picturesque part of the city. Some squares are geared towards the visitor while locals frequent others. Many of the city inhabitants come here to grab lunch and to socialize. It is great for people watching, and as you have probably deduced, here you can grab exquisite Valencia paella.
- The Beaches– The beaches of Valencia are quite wonderful. Several are unspoiled and have no development. Perfect for evening strolls are to escape the crowds of their more developed counterparts. If you have children, you can find beaches that cater to them too. You can grab a great paella from many of the city’s beaches.
- Valencia Cathedral– The cathedral is quite a unique piece of architecture dating from the 13th century. Controversially, it claims to house The Holy Grail, one of a few places worldwide to do so. As well as the Grail, you can find magnificent paintings, and the view from the bell tower is wonderful.
- The Turia River Bed– The Turia River once flowed through Valencia. After a terrible flood in the 1950s, it was decided to divert the river around the city. As such, the river that once flowed through Valencia vanished leaving the river bed which was turned into a fantastic park in the heart of the city. One to visit for sure.
Getting Started with Paella
When you first start out, copy an established recipe. Once you have this down and culinary compliments come your way, branch out, and experiment. Yes, they’ll be a few misses, but it won’t be long before you start making impressive paella dishes.