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What Ingredients Do I Need for Paella?

Jonathan Harris | May 2025

Paella, the iconic Spanish rice dish, is a feast for the senses, and is the centerpiece for a festive gathering. Originating from the Valencia region of Spain, paella has become a famous dish worldwide. Whether you're cooking a traditional Valencian paella or experimenting with your own version, here are the essential ingredients you'll need:

Key Ingredients for Paella

  1. Rice: The foundation of any paella is the rice. Use short-grain rice from Spain, such as Bomba or Calasparra, which absorbs liquid well and remains firm during cooking.
  2. Saffron: This precious spice gives paella its distinctive golden color and a subtle floral flavor. A pinch of saffron can go a long way. La Mancha saffron is the best.
  3. Olive Oil: High quality extra virgin olive oil is best for sautéing the ingredients and adding flavor to the dish. Don’t worry, extra virgin olive oil is great for cooking.
  4. Stock: A quality stock adds a fuller flavor to your paella. Strict traditionalists would say that all the flavors should come from the meats and vegetables, but I think a broth makes it even better. Chicken, seafood or vegetable stock can be used, depending on the type of paella you're making.

Meats

  1. Chicken or Rabbit: If you want to go 100% traditional, rabbit is a key ingredient in the original Valencian paella. Chicken is much more easily available and adds a nice meatiness to paella. I prefer using thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
  2. Seafood: For seafood paella, include a mix of shrimp, mussels, clams and squid. Be sure to buy the freshest seafood you can find; it will really elevate the dish.
  3. Chorizo: A true Valencian would never add chorizo sausage to paella. But chorizo can add a smoky, spicy flavor to your paella that is really tasty.

Vegetables

  1. Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are used grated and sauteed in the pan to add a base of flavor that adds depth to the paella.
  2. Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and sweetness.
  3. Green Beans: Often used in Valencian paella, green beans add a fresh, crunchy texture. If you can find broad, flat green beans, all the better.
  4. Peas: Again, green peas are not traditional, but they can add a pop of color and sweetness.

Aromatics and Seasonings

  1. Paprika: Smoked paprika from Spain (Pimentón de La Vera) adds a smoky depth to the dish.
  2. Salt and Pepper: Season the paella to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Optional Ingredients

  1. Alioli: Creamy, garlicky aioli complements the richness and savory flavors of paella. 
  2. Piquillo Peppers: Wood-fire roasted pimientos del piquillo add a sweet, smoky flavor. I like to add them to the top of my paella right before serving.
  3. Artichokes: Fresh or canned artichoke hearts can add tasty flavor and texture.
  4. Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.
  5. Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the paella, especially for the seafood version.

Cooking Essentials

  1. Paella Pan: A wide, shallow paella pan ensures even cooking and allows the rice to form a crispy crust (socarrat) at the bottom.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to creating a delicious Spanish paella. Whether you stick with tradition or add your own twist, the key is to use top quality ingredients and cook with love. It’s all about sharing the flavors of Spain with friends and family.

¡Buen provecho!

Jonathan Harris – La Tienda

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