For lovers of good gastronomy, enjoying a good dish is a ceremonial moment. Combination of flavors and aromas that combine for a pleasant experience. Every place in the world has its typical and emblematic dishes. Pasta, lasagna and pizza from the Italian cuisinethe sushi and the ramen of the japanese stoves or the delicate French pastry. On this occasion we want to delve into the depths of Spain, to talk to you about one of those dishes with a marked identity and universal scope. The history of paella is much more original than we think. Today in Supercurioso we want to share with you the origin of the paella. Join us!
The curious origin of paella and its name
Paella, that iconic and tasty dish that takes us on a journey to the sunny lands of Valencia, has a fascinating history that goes back centuries. But how did this peculiar name come about? It turns out that paella owes its name to the wide and shallow pan in which it is cooked. This frying pan, known as “paella” or “paellera”, is the key element to achieve an authentic Valencian paella.
Although the history of paella has gone through various stages, and today many consider it haute cuisine, you should know that In its beginnings it was a fairly humble and simple dish that was prepared in the rural areas of Valencia.
Farmers and peasants used abundant local ingredients, such as rabbit, chicken, garrofón (a variety of bean), tomato, olive oil, saffron, and rice. These ingredients were slowly cooked over a wood fire, in the paella pan, creating a dish that conveyed the authentic flavors of the region.
The history of the paella
As we have seen, the origin of the paella is peasant and wild, without major pretensions associated with haute cuisine. However, its history has been moving and evolving over time. This dish evokes the flavors of the Mediterranean, and earned a place among the most emblematic of the Spanish Cuisine. But it did not stay there condensed, but expanded. Currently, it has become a symbol of Valencian culture, which conquers palates all over the world.
From its rural origin, paella began to evolve rapidly. Its growth in local taste was aided by the introduction of rice in the region. During the Arab rule in the Iberian Peninsula, the Moors brought with them the cultivation of ricewhich adapted perfectly to the conditions of the Albufera Natural Park, a lagoon near Valencia. Rice became the main ingredient in paella and, combined with the flavors of local ingredients, resulted in a unique and delicious recipe.
Over time, the origin of paella became distant, and the dish left the fields to become popular throughout Spain. Then began another stage in the history of paella, in which began to evolve in different variants, adapting to the tastes and availability of ingredients of each region. Each place added its personal touch, thus creating the diversity of paellas that we know today.
In the 1900s, the history of paella crossed the borders of Spain and began to gain international recognition.. During the 1909 Universal Exposition in Barcelona, Valencian paella was introduced to the world and captured the attention of visitors. From that moment on, its fame spread rapidly and it became one of the most representative dishes of Spanish cuisine throughout the world.
Today, paella has become an iconic dish and its popularity continues to grow around the world. In addition to the traditional Valencian paella, there are numerous variants that include seafood, vegetables, meat and mixed combinations. Each of these variants reflects the richness and diversity of Spanish culinary culture.
What are the most popular types of paellas?
1. The Valencian Paella
Talking about the origin of paella is going to the variant with which it all started: the Valencian paella. This authentic and traditional dish is a celebration of the basic and flavorful ingredients found in the Valencia region. Prepared with bomba rice, chicken, rabbit, green beans, carob, tomato, saffron and chicken broth, this paella embodies the essence of Valencian cuisine. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that transports you to the sunny lands of Spain.
2. The Seafood Paella
If you are a lover of the flavors of the sea, the seafood paella is a perfect choice. Filled with shrimp, fresh mussels, calamari, and other treasures from the ocean, this paella is an explosion of marine flavors. The rice absorbs the juices and flavors of the seafood, creating a rich and delicious dish that will make you feel like you are on the Spanish coast.
3. The mixed Paella
In the history of paella, the mixed one is one of the most popular. If you find it difficult to decide between meat or seafood, this variant will be your favorite. Combine the best of both worlds by adding chicken, rabbit, and shellfish to paella. The result is a perfect combination of flavours, where the meat contributes its juiciness and the seafood adds its marine touch. This paella is ideal for those looking for a varied and complete culinary experience.
4. Vegetable Paella
Although the origin of the paella includes seafood and meat, there are other options as well. For lovers of fresh vegetables and vegetarian cuisine, the vegetable paella is a fabulous option. Bursting with color and flavor, this paella includes a variety of seasonal vegetables, such as artichokes, peppers, green beans, and tomatoes.. Each bite is an explosion of natural textures and flavors. In addition, you can add your personal touch with your favorite vegetables. It is a lighter and healthier option, and equally delicious.
In short, the origin of paella is endearing and natural. From the fields, this dish managed to make its way, evolve and diversify, to become a universal emblem of Spanish food. And you, do you like paella? Which of their varieties is your favourite? Feel free to share your comments with us. We will be happy to read you. And if you are interested in continuing to learn about this fascinating culture, we leave you with our article on the best curiosities of Spain. Until next time!
Beyond the origin of paella
If this article has been curious to you, you may be interested in knowing where other of the most loved foods and dishes around the world come from. Do not stop reading and tell us which of them is your favorite. oh! We also leave you this short selection of food phrases to accompany them with your selected menu.