Spanish Coastal Delight: Shrimp with Smoked Paprika and Saffron Rice

by

A Culinary Journey Through Mediterranean Flavors

This dish captures the essence of Spanish coastal cuisine – a perfect harmony of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and traditional cooking techniques that transport you directly to the sunny shores of Spain.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Rice:

  • 180g / 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 480ml / 2 cups water
  • 5g / 1 tsp sea salt

For the Smoked Shrimp:

  • 45ml / 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion (100g), finely chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper (150g), finely chopped
  • 2.5g / 1 tsp smoked paprika (pimentón dulce)
  • 0.17g / pinch saffron threads
  • 410g / 14 oz tomato sauce
  • 450g / 1 lb raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 30g / ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cooking Method

Preparing the Rice (20 minutes)

  1. Rinse rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear.
  2. Bring salted water to a boil in a saucepan.
  3. Add washed rice, return to boil.
  4. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-18 minutes.

Preparing the Shrimp (15 minutes)

  1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
  2. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil.
  4. Cook shrimp for 30 seconds per side (partially cooked).
  5. Remove and set aside.

Creating the Sauce (15 minutes)

  1. In the same pan, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
  2. Add smoked paprika and saffron, cook briefly to release aromas.
  3. Pour in tomato sauce, simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Return shrimp to pan, cook for final 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 385 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 580 mg

Chef’s Serving Recommendations

Plating

  • Create a bed of rice
  • Spread shrimp and sauce over rice
  • Garnish generously with fresh parsley
  • Serve with lemon slices

Perfect Pairing

  • Dry Spanish white wine (Albariño)
  • Fresh baguette to soak up the sauce

Pro Chef Tips

  1. Use highest quality fresh shrimp
  2. Select authentic Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón)
  3. Soak saffron in warm water before use
  4. Avoid overcooking shrimp to maintain tenderness

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Up to 24 hours
  • Best consumed immediately
  • Shrimp texture may change when reheated

Why This Dish Celebrates Mediterranean Cuisine

This recipe embodies the core principles of Spanish coastal cooking:

  • Fresh, high-quality ingredients
  • Bold, aromatic spices
  • Simple yet sophisticated preparation
  • Emphasis on natural flavors

Variations and Adaptations

Vegetarian Option

  • Replace shrimp with king oyster mushrooms
  • Use vegetable stock instead of seafood base

Gluten-Free Adaptation

  • Ensure tomato sauce is gluten-free
  • Serve with gluten-free bread alternative

Cultural Significance

More than just a meal, this dish tells a story of Spanish coastal life – of fishermen, sun-drenched shores, and generations of culinary tradition passed down through careful preparation and respect for ingredients.

A true taste of Spain, served with passion and authenticity!