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Vegan Paella

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Vegan Paella is a colorful, plant-based twist on the traditional Spanish rice dish. Made with short-grain rice, fresh vegetables, and bold spices like smoked paprika and saffron, this one-pan meal is hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups short-grain rice (such as Bomba or Arborio)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (warm)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup green beans or peas
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts (optional)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp saffron threads (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in bell peppers and cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and thicken, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in rice, smoked paprika, saffron (if using), salt, and pepper. Toast rice for 1–2 minutes, stirring gently.
  5. Pour in warm vegetable broth and stir once to distribute ingredients evenly. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered without stirring for 15–20 minutes.
  6. Add green beans, peas, and artichokes during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking.
  7. Once the rice is tender and the liquid absorbed, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Do not stir while cooking to help form a crispy bottom layer (socarrat).
  • Substitute saffron with turmeric for a similar color and mild flavor.
  • Add mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein and variety.
  • Use a wide, shallow pan for even cooking and better texture.
  • Letting the paella rest before serving helps the flavors settle.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/vegan-paella/