Paella rewards the right grain and a restrained hand; bomba can soak up three times its volume in stock without collapsing into mush. What you're really after is the socarrat, the toasted crust along the bottom, and it forms only if you stop stirring the moment the rice hits the pan. Spread the rice thin, about one grain deep, and let the heat do the rest.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook35 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineSpanish
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
Contains shellfish
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Bomba rice
The classic paella grain; it absorbs stock without going creamy or collapsing like risotto rice.
Build the sofritoBrown the chorizo in olive oil, then cook onion, pepper, tomato, and paprika down to a dark jammy paste, about 15 minutes.
Bloom the saffronCrush the saffron threads and steep them in 4 cups of warm stock so the color pulls fully.
Add the riceStir the rice into the sofrito for 1 minute, then pour in the saffron stock and spread the rice flat and even.
Do not stirSimmer 18 minutes without stirring so the bottom can toast; lay the shrimp on top for the last 6 minutes.
Make the socarratWhen the liquid is gone, raise the heat 2 minutes until you hear crackling and smell toasted rice; rest 5 minutes off heat before serving.
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Paella? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Paella ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Paella gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Paella vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
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