Easy Shrimp and Chorizo Paella Recipe – A Spanish Delight

 Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Spain with this authentic Shrimp and Chorizo Paella recipe. Bursting with bold flavors and a medley of textures and colors, paella is an iconic Spanish dish that's perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. This recipe combines smoky chorizo, juicy shrimp, and flavorful saffron-infused rice for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that's bound to impress.

If you've been searching for an easy Spanish paella dish that delivers restaurant-quality results, you’re in the right place. Follow along to create a paella everyone will rave about!

Ingredients for Shrimp and Chorizo Paella

To make this easy Shrimp and Chorizo Paella, you’ll need the following:

For the Paella:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup Spanish chorizo, sliced
• 2 large tomatoes, grated (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
• 2 cups bomba or arborio rice (short-grain rice works best)
• 4 cups chicken or seafood stock (preferably warm)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 pound (about 20) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional for Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Chopped parsley

Equipment:

• 12-inch paella pan or a large, shallow skillet

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in your paella pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they soften and turn fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and sliced chorizo, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the chorizo releases its flavorful oils.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add the grated tomatoes to the pan, stirring to combine. Cook until the mixture thickens into a rich sauce, about 5 minutes. Stir in the smoked paprika and saffron (along with the soaking water) to give the dish its beautiful depth and unmistakable aroma.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the pan, stirring for about 1-2 minutes to coat the grains in the flavorful mixture. This step helps ensure the rice absorbs the delicious flavors of the dish.

Step 4: Add the Stock

Slowly pour the warm chicken or seafood stock over the rice. Spread the rice evenly across the pan, but resist the urge to stir as the dish cooks. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid over the next 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Toppings

About 10 minutes into the cooking process, scatter the shrimp across the top of the rice. Add the peas as well, allowing everything to cook gently until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 6: Achieving the Socarrat

Once most of the liquid has been absorbed, increase the heat slightly for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This creates the socarrat, the crispy rice layer on the bottom that’s prized in authentic paella. You’ll know it’s ready when you hear a light crackling sound.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Remove the paella from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Tips for Perfect Paella

• Choose the right rice: Traditional bomba rice is ideal for an authentic paella recipe. If you can’t find it, arborio or any short-grain rice will work well. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it doesn’t absorb flavor as effectively.
• Don’t stir the rice while it cooks: This is key to achieving a gorgeous, even layer of paella and allowing the socarrat to form.
• Saffron is a game-changer: While it’s one of the pricier spices, saffron adds that iconic golden color and earthy aroma that makes paella special. It’s worth the splurge!
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ripe tomatoes can take your dish from good to great.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Shrimp and Chorizo Paella with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sangria also complements the dish beautifully, enhancing its Spanish-inspired flair.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this bold and flavorful Spanish paella dish will become a new favorite. Try it out, savor the rich flavors, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family.

Now it’s your turn! Grab your skillet, gather your fresh ingredients, and bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen. Once you've tried it, share your experience in the comments below—what was your favorite part of the paella-making process?