Image Source from LemonNRosemary

Air Fryer Paella: A Classic Spanish Dish Reimagined

Paella, the beloved Spanish dish that hails from the coastal region of Valencia, is renowned for its vibrant colours, rich flavours, and its ability to bring people together around a shared table. Traditionally cooked over an open flame in a shallow, wide pan, paella can be a labour of love. However, with the advent of modern kitchen technology, the air fryer has emerged as a convenient tool to create this iconic dish with significantly less hassle while still capturing its essence.

What is Paella?

At its heart, paella is a rice dish typically made with a combination of saffron-infused rice, a variety of proteins (such as chicken, rabbit, seafood, and sometimes even vegetables), and an array of spices. The dish’s name is derived from the Old French word "paelle" for "pan", which reflects its pan-centric cooking method. There are many regional variations, but the classic Valencian paella remains the most famous.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer to prepare paella comes with numerous benefits. The air fryer can produce a crispy bottom layer of rice—known as "socarrat"—a characteristic of traditional paella, while also reducing cooking time. This modern appliance uses hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly, which can be a game-changer for busy cooks who still want to enjoy authentic flavours without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create an air fryer paella that serves approximately four people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup aborio rice (or any short-grain rice, such as bomba)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green, as per preference)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon saffron strands (soaked in a little warm water)
• 1 cup protein of choice (chicken, prawns, chorizo, or a mix)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnishing

Method

1. Prepare the Base:
   In a bowl, mix the rice with smoked paprika, saffron water, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 5 minutes. In the air fryer basket, drizzle olive oil, then add the chopped onion and garlic. Air fry for 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the diced bell pepper and continue to air fry for another 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the Protein:
   If you’re using chicken or chorizo, add it now and air fry for approximately 5-7 minutes until browned. If you’re opting for prawns or other seafood, add them later to avoid overcooking.

4. Cook the Rice:
   Stir the rice mixture into the vegetable and protein base, then pour in the broth. Ensure that the rice is evenly distributed. Close the air fryer and cook at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If using seafood, add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

5. Finishing Touches:
   Once the timer goes off, let the paella sit in the air fryer for an additional 5 minutes to achieve that coveted socarrat. This will give the bottom layer a delightful crunch.

6. Serve:
   Fluff the paella gently with a fork, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Conclusion

Air fryer paella may not adhere strictly to traditional cooking methods, but it retains all the flavour and spirit of the classic dish while offering a quicker and simpler route to a delicious meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family gathering, or treating yourself to a comforting dish, this air fryer recipe makes it easy to celebrate the taste of Spain right from your kitchen. So, don’t hesitate to give it a go—your taste buds will thank you!

No items listed in the response.