Thai-Inspired Seafood Paella

Ingredients

While the original Spanish paella is known for its saffron-infused rice and Mediterranean flavors, this Thai adaptation incorporates the fragrant and spicy elements of Thai cuisine. We replace saffron with turmeric for a vibrant yellow hue and infuse the dish with lemongrass, coconut milk, and Thai herbs to create a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Paella, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) jasmine rice 2 cups (400g) jasmine rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup (200g) diced pineapple 1 cup (200g) diced pineapple
• 1 cup (200g) diced tomatoes 1 cup (200g) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 pound (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels) 1 pound (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a large paella pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the bruised lemongrass stalk, sliced red bell pepper, diced pineapple, and diced tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Stir in the Thai red curry paste and turmeric powder, coating the vegetables evenly.
5. 5.
   Add the rinsed jasmine rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked.
7. 7.
   Nestle the mixed seafood into the rice, cover the pan, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the rice is tender.
8. 8.
   Remove the pan from heat and discard the lemongrass stalk. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalk by lightly pounding it with a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release its aromatic oils.
• Thai red curry paste — Adjust the amount of curry paste according to your desired level of spiciness. Add more for a fiery kick or reduce for a milder flavor.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the creamy part is fully incorporated.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of fresh Thai basil leaves to the paella just before serving.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the seafood and add a medley of colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas.
• To achieve the signature crispy bottom layer of rice, let the paella sit undisturbed for a few minutes after cooking before serving.
• Feel free to customize the seafood selection based on your preferences and availability.
• Leftover Thai-inspired seafood paella can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Simply reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-inspired seafood paella hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will captivate your guests as they savor the harmonious blend of Thai and Spanish flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Thai-inspired seafood paella in a large, shallow serving dish to showcase the colorful ingredients and aromatic rice. Sprinkle some additional fresh cilantro leaves on top for an added touch of freshness.