Hearty and Authentic Pork Paella Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of short-grain Spanish rice
  • 1 pound of pork tenderloin, cut into small pieces
  • 4 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 large pinch of saffron threads
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup of fresh green peas
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or paella pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the pork tenderloin to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the rice to the pan and stir well to coat with the tomato and vegetable mixture.
  6. Warm the chicken broth in a separate pot or microwave and dissolve the saffron threads in it. Pour the saffron-infused broth into the pan with the rice.
  7. Return the pork to the pan, reduce the heat to low, cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  8. Stir in the green peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the peas are tender.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large frying pan or paella pan - A wide cooking pan with shallow sides, perfect for cooking paella.
  • Pot or microwave - A pot on a stove or a microwave can be used to warm the chicken broth.
  • Cutting board - A flat surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - A versatile knife used for chopping and slicing.
  • Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring and combining ingredients.
  • Measuring cups - Used to accurately measure the amount of rice and broth.
  • Spatula - Helpful for flipping and turning the pork tenderloin while cooking.
  • Can opener - Needed to open the can of diced tomatoes.
  • Lemon squeezer - Optional, but useful for extracting juice from the lemon wedges for garnish.
  • Paella burner and stand - Optional, but handy for cooking the paella outdoors or over an open flame.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the pork tenderloin with chicken thighs or chorizo for a different meat option.
  • Add shrimp or mussels to the paella for a seafood twist.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Include additional vegetables such as diced carrots, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs like smoked paprika, thyme, or bay leaves.
  • Add a splash of white wine or sherry for extra flavor.
  • Try using a different type of rice such as long-grain or jasmine rice.
  • Make it spicy by adding chopped chili peppers or red pepper flakes.
  • Top the cooked paella with grated cheese like Manchego or Parmesan.

Recipe overview

This Pork Paella recipe is a delightful twist on a traditional Spanish dish. The tender pork, flavorful vegetables, and saffron-infused rice combine for a hearty and savory meal that's sure to impress at any dinner party or family gathering. While the recipe does involve several steps, don't be intimidated - each one is straightforward, and the end result is well worth the effort. You'll start by browning the pork, then sautéing veggies and combining them with the rice. After simmering everything with a rich, saffron-infused chicken broth, the dish is finished with fresh peas and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, citrusy contrast to the warm, savory flavors of the paella. Enjoy this filling, flavorful dish and the compliments you'll undoubtedly receive from everyone who tries it.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of rice?
    While it is best to use short-grain Spanish rice for an authentic paella, you can substitute with Arborio rice if needed. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid measurements may vary slightly.
  2. Can I use a different meat instead of pork?
    Yes, you can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken, shrimp, or a combination of seafood and meats. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
    Absolutely! Simply omit the pork and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to make a vegetarian version. For a vegan option, also skip the saffron and use a plant-based protein alternative.
  4. What can I serve with pork paella?
    Traditional accompaniments include a fresh green salad, crusty bread, and a glass of Spanish red wine. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    While paella is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook. Add the peas and finish cooking just before serving for the best results.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Paella, a dish celebrated as Spain's national dish, has humble origins. It began in Valencia, a region on the east coast of Spain, renowned for its abundant rice fields. Initially, paella was a dish of the rural workers, crafted in a wide, shallow pan over an open fire, filled with whatever ingredients they could find nearby. This could be vegetables, rabbit, snails, or even chicken. The dish was named after the pan it was cooked in - 'paella' which meant 'frying pan' in Valencian. But it was the addition of saffron, the expensive golden spice, and seafood when it reached the coastal areas, that transformed this humble dish into the icon of Spanish cuisine that we know today. Our twist on this classic, with tender pork and fresh green peas, pays homage to the ever-evolving nature of this rustic fare.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.