Shrimp & Broccoli Brown Rice Paella Recipe

Are you looking for a dish that consists of a unique blend of Spanish and Mediterranean flavors and is easy to make for the whole family? This Shrimp & Broccoli Brown Rice Paella Recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for serving at every gathering.

Paella has long been a favorite. This dish is more delicious with the added flavors of shrimp and broccoli. It’s an excellent party food that you can prepare at home. Continue reading this article to learn how to make this dish!

Shrimp and Broccoli Brown Rice Paella Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium red pepper, chopped
• 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• 2 cups uncooked long-grain brown rice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon saffron threads
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 pounds uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1-½ cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Using a Dutch oven or paella pan, heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. After heating the olive oil, add onion, red pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the bell pepper and mushrooms are tender.
3. Stir in brown rice, garlic. Then, add salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper seasonings. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes longer.
4. Once it’s combined, stir in stock and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 40 to 45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and brown rice is tender.
6. Add shrimp and broccoli, cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until shrimp turn pink, and stir in peas.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped parsley.

What Is the Secret to a Good Paella?

The secret to a good paella is Saffron. This ingredient is responsible for the dish’s distinct yellow color and flavor. It’s the most costly spice in the world, yet a little goes a long way in paella. Saffron is derived from the stigmas of the crocus flower, and a vast number of blooms are required to generate a small amount of saffron. This ingredient also contains health benefits. It has a high concentration of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

What Is the Best Rice for Paella?

​​Bomba rice is the best rice to use for paella. Not only is it authentic to the dish, but the results are usually excellent. If you can’t get bomba rice, Calasparra rice is a great replacement. If you don’t have Bomba or Calasparra, alternatives like Arborio rice, brown rice, or white rice will do the trick. However, you must modify the measurements and pay extra attention during cooking.

What Kind of Sauce Goes With Paella?

Many different sauces go well with paella depending on your preference. If you like something more traditional, you can go for a classic Spanish tomato sauce. However, if you want something more flavorful, try a sauce made with garlic, onion, and green peppers. Other popular options include aioli, romesco, and salsa verde.

What Is Traditionally Served With Paella?

Paella is frequently served with Spanish bread and is traditionally used as an accompaniment to seafood dishes. But if you are feeling adventurous, you can serve it with French baguette, Italian bread, or even tortillas.

Recipe Tips

• This dish is gluten-free. You can use brown rice instead of white. However, other types of rice can be used as alternatives.
• For storage, place cooled paella in freezer containers.
• Before reheating, partially thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight.
• When it’s time to reheat, you can use the microwave, cover and transfer the food in a microwave-safe dish until heated while stirring gently.
• You may add a little stock or water if necessary in reheating.

Final Note

This Shrimp and Broccoli Brown Rice Paella Recipe is simple to make, and you can quickly freeze leftovers for another time. This consists of various components to create a tasty and delightful dish. If you are looking for meal options for future family gatherings, this recipe is perfect for everyone.

Looking for more delectable recipes for your upcoming festivities? Browse through our collection.