Paella with a Twist: Recipes with a Mix of Other Cuisines
Are you a fan of paella? It’s a traditional Spanish dish that’s popular around the world. It is made of saffron-infused rice, meat, seafood, and vegetables. The protein depends on the regional produce in Spain, but the first paella was made in Valencia.
Meanwhile, if you’re not familiar with saffron, it’s considered the most expensive spice that costs around £3 to £70.
As for the popularity of paella, many chefs and foodies have been creating various versions of this amazing dish. However, if you haven’t tried the authentic one, don’t hesitate to visit Spanish restaurants. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best paella recipes with a mix of other cuisines.
1. Asian-Inspired Paella
Sushi Paella
Sushi paella has two different versions, the Japanese-flavoured paella, and the Spanish paella wrapped in a nori sheet.
The first version uses sushi rice instead of the Spanish paella rice, seasoned with salt and rice vinegar, and topped with sashimi fish (like tuna). You can add soy sauce or Japanese mayo on the side, depending on your preferences.
Meanwhile, the latter version is when you use the traditional paella, and wrap it in nori sheets. There’s no need to add soy sauce, so that you can enjoy the flavours of Spain with a touch of the nori.
Thai Curry Paella
Instead of infusing the rice in saffron, Thai curry paella has Thai red or green curry base with coconut milk. As for the protein, you can use shrimp, and bell peppers, mushrooms, onion, and garlic for the vegetables. Of course, to make this dish similar to paella, you can use Spanish paella rice, and don’t forget to serve it in a paellera (the pan used to serve paella). You can also garnish it with cilantro.
2. Latin American Fusion Paella
Mexican Paella
The Mexican paella may look like the traditional recipe due to its colour. However, it’s filled with Mexican flavours, such as Mexican chorizo, cumin, oregano, turmeric, chipotle peppers, roasted tomatoes, and black beans. As for the toppings, you can add lime wedges and cilantro.
Peruvian Paella
For the Peruvian paella, the main ingredient is the aji amarillo paste, which is a traditional Peruvian chili. It’s usually used with seafood, so you should also pick your preferred seafood when making this dish.
Of course, you should also use the Spanish rice infused in saffron to honour the dish. In addition, saute the seafood in garlic and onion, and top it off with parsley, cilantro, and shredded Parmesan cheese.
3. Mediterranean-Infused Paella
Greek Paella
The Greek version of paella comes with the Mediterranean ingredients, including feta cheese, olive, and oregano. As for the base, you can start with the saffron-infused rice, and chicken or lamb for the protein. Lastly, for the ultimate Greek twist, you can add tzatziki on the side.
Meanwhile, if you have access to other Greek ingredients, you can also try orzo, instead of rice.
Italian Risotto-Paella Hybrid
The rich flavours of paella infused with the creamy texture of risotto is something you shouldn’t miss. Cook the risotto in chicken stock infused with saffron. After that, sauté your preferred protein in onion and garlic, and add sun-dried tomatoes, Italian sausage, red pepper flakes, and pimenton.
Just like the other versions, don’t forget to use paellera to add a crunchy texture at the bottom of the paella.
4. Middle Eastern Paella
Moroccan-Spiced Paella
If you want to try a fresh and crunchy take on paella, you should try the Moroccan-spiced version. Instead of saffron, the base spice here is turmeric, which is used to infuse the rice. In addition, mix other spices, such as coriander, cumin, and cinnamon.
As for the protein, you can pick your choice, and combine it with the spiced rice, and some dried fruits, like raisins and apricots. As for the toppings, you can add fresh mint, toasted almonds, and don’t forget a wedge of lime.
Lebanese Paella
For the Lebanese paella, you can start with getting the Middle Eastern rice, also known as rice pilaf, and combine it with vermicelli pasta. Next, saute garlic, za’atar, sumac, and your chosen protein in olive oil. After that, add some chickpeas and roasted eggplant. You can also arrange these in paellera, and serve it with labneh (strained yogurt) on the side.
Final Thoughts
Exploring various twists in traditional dishes can be a great way to get to know various cuisines, and how they can be used to create versions of various dishes.
When it comes to paella, the fusion of various cuisines creates a new dimension to its timeless taste. Aside from the recipes mentioned in this article, there are surely other versions of paella with a mix of other cuisines.
Whether you’re planning to make your own paella recipe with a twist, or have tried other versions aside from the ones mentioned in this article, don’t forget to share them with us by commenting below!