Bavarian-style Paella

Ingredients

While the original Spanish Paella is known for its seafood and saffron-infused rice, our Bavarian-style Paella takes a departure by incorporating Bavarian ingredients and flavors. We replace the seafood with succulent bratwurst and smoky bacon, infusing the dish with a rich and savory taste. Additionally, we enhance the rice with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions, giving it a distinct Bavarian touch. We alse have the original recipe for Paella, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (185g) Arborio rice 1 cup (185g) Arborio rice
• 2 bratwurst sausages, sliced 2 bratwurst sausages, sliced
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, sliced 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bratwurst and chopped bacon. Cook until browned and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the onions are caramelized and the bell pepper is tender.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and the garlic is fragrant.
4. 4.
   Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the Arborio rice. Toast the rice for a few minutes until it becomes slightly translucent.
5. 5.
   Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, caraway seeds, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
7. 7.
   Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked bratwurst and bacon back to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and let the Bavarian-style Paella rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bratwurst — For a smokier flavor, you can grill the bratwurst before slicing them for the paella.
• Arborio rice — Rinse the rice under cold water before using to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Caraway seeds — Toast the caraway seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their aroma and flavor.
• Bacon — Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture and more pronounced flavor.
• Mushrooms — Use a mix of different mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster for a more complex taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a Bavarian twist, serve the paella with a dollop of tangy Bavarian mustard on the side.
• Add a splash of Bavarian beer to the paella while cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish.
• Customize the vegetables by adding Bavarian favorites like sauerkraut or pickles for a unique twist.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day by reheating the paella in a skillet with a little bit of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Serving advice

Serve the Bavarian-style Paella hot, straight from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Accompany it with a side of Bavarian mustard and a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Bavarian-style Paella in a large, shallow serving dish to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Sprinkle some additional fresh parsley on top for an added touch of freshness. Serve with rustic wooden utensils for a cozy and inviting presentation.