At Delilah, we are passionate about bringing the authentic flavors of Spain to your kitchen. One dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Spanish cuisine is paella – a vibrant, aromatic, and comforting rice dish that varies in style and ingredients across regions. However, no matter which version you make, using high-quality Spanish ingredients is key to achieving a truly authentic paella. That's why we’ve carefully selected four essential ingredients from renowned Spanish producers that will elevate your paella to the next level: Spanish Saffron, Bomba Paella Rice, El Avion Paprika, and Sahita Olive Oil. Let’s take a closer look at each of these ingredients and why we think these producers are exceptional.

1. Spanish Saffron

Saffron is one of the most iconic and luxurious ingredients in paella, giving the dish its distinctive golden hue and complex, earthy flavor. At Delilah, we offer premium Spanish Saffron, sourced directly from the fields of Castilla-La Mancha, Spain – the heart of saffron production. The intense, floral aroma and vibrant color of this saffron are unparalleled. It’s hand-harvested, ensuring only the finest threads are selected, which results in a rich and flavorful infusion. Spanish saffron is prized for its purity, and a little goes a long way in enhancing your paella’s depth and visual appeal.

2. Bomba Paella Rice

The choice of rice is critical in making the perfect paella. Bomba Paella Rice, another staple at Delilah, is grown in the rice fields of the Albufera region near Valencia – the birthplace of paella. Bomba rice is unique because of its ability to absorb a large amount of liquid (up to three times its volume) while maintaining a firm texture, making it ideal for paella. 

3. El Avion Paprika

Paprika is the backbone of many Spanish dishes, and paella is no exception. El Avion Paprika is an exquisite example of Spanish paprika, renowned for its smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavour. This small-batch producer from the region of La Vera in Extremadura uses traditional methods of drying peppers over oak wood fires, imparting a deep, rich smokiness to the paprika. The balance of sweet and savory notes from El Avion Paprika will bring a depth of flavour to your paella that is both comforting and bold. It’s an ingredient that shines when paired with seafood, chicken, or vegetables.

4. Sahita Olive Oil

Olive oil is another essential ingredient in Spanish cooking, and Sahita Olive Oil is one of the finest extra virgin olive oils available. Sourced from the sun-drenched groves of Andalusia, this oil has a rich, smooth texture with subtle fruity notes that add an incredible layer of flavour to your paella. Unlike mass-produced oils, Sahita uses traditional cold-pressing methods to retain the full flavor profile of the olives. The high quality of this olive oil makes it perfect for sautéing your vegetables, proteins, and rice, ensuring each component of your paella is infused with a harmonious, authentic Spanish taste.

Why We Love These Producers

At Delilah, we pride ourselves on sourcing ingredients that reflect the authenticity and quality of Spain’s culinary heritage. The producers we partner with – whether it's the small-scale saffron growers of Castilla-La Mancha, the rice farmers of Valencia, or the skilled artisans making paprika and olive oil in the heart of Spain – are all deeply committed to preserving traditional methods and using the highest-quality raw materials. These ingredients are chosen not only for their superior flavours but also for their sustainability and craftsmanship. When you shop with us, you are supporting exceptional producers who take great pride in their craft.

Paella Recipe: Classic Valencian Paella

Now that you’re equipped with the best Spanish ingredients, it’s time to put them to use! Here’s a simple and delicious paella recipe using the ingredients we stock at Delilah.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups Bomba Paella Rice

• 4 tbsp Sahita Olive Oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 1 tsp El Avion Paprika

• 1 ½ tsp Spanish Saffron (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)

• 4 cups chicken or seafood stock (hot)

• 1 cup peas (optional)

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 lb chicken thighs or rabbit, cut into pieces

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges for serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Saffron: In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tbsp warm water and set aside to bloom.

2. Cook the Base: Heat the Sahita Olive Oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to break down. Add the El Avion Paprika, stirring well to coat the vegetables in the spice.

4. Add the Rice: Stir in the Bomba Paella Rice, allowing it to toast for a couple of minutes in the oil and spices.

5. Add Stock and Saffron: Pour in the hot stock and the saffron-infused water. Stir well to combine, then bring to a simmer. Do not stir once the rice is in the pan. Allow the paella to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes.

6. Add the Protein: Add the chicken or rabbit pieces to the pan, then cover and cook for another 10 minutes. Add the shrimp and peas (if using) to the pan, then cover again and cook for 5-7 more minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid.

7. Rest and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat and let the paella rest, covered, for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy the vibrant, rich flavors of your homemade paella, made with the best Spanish ingredients available at Delilah!