Since paella is a rice-based meal, the choice of rice is crucial to the success of the dish. According to Linda, if you choose the wrong rice, you can end up with risotto at best or a sticky, inedible mass. For this Spanish specialty, the rice grains must be able to absorb a lot of moisture and retain their individuality. Bomba rice, a short-grain variety grown mainly on the eastern coast of Spain, is best for paella. It can absorb about one and a half times more liquid than other varieties without becoming mushy. Because of its close association with regional cuisine, it is sometimes called “Arroz de Valencia.”
Where to Buy the Rice for Paella?
Bomba rice can be purchased online or at your local store. It is available at The Spanish Table, which is next to my favorite restaurant in Berkeley. However, depending on where you are, it may not be available locally. Sur La Table or Whole Foods may carry it. High-quality rice is packaged in a canvas bag. It is best not to buy it in a plastic bag. The grain needs to breathe to stay in its best shape. Although paella rice can be expensive, it is worth the investment if you have the means. You can also opt for one of the cheaper alternatives to the superior variety below.
What Is the Substitute for Bomba Rice?
Bomba may not be available in your region, or it may simply be too expensive. There are many other varieties of Spanish rice that you can substitute. Balilla has already been mentioned. It tends to stick more, making it difficult for home cooks to get a perfect consistency. Bahia and Senia are more convenient and cheaper. However, they are harder to find in the United States. These varieties are creamier but can be used for authentic dishes if available. A new variety, Albufera, has recently gained popularity. It is a cross between Bomba, Senia, and Bomba.
Bomba is ideal for this particular dish because of its creaminess and ability to maintain its central structure. These options are available if you live in Europe. Italian arborio rice is another option. It has a shorter grain and can absorb a lot of liquid without falling apart. Sushi rice is another alternative since it tends to be very sticky when cooked. Camino’s chef developed a method to make sushi rice more suitable for paella. However, it is a labor-intensive alternative.
How to Cook Rice for Paella?
Cooking this dish at home can seem intimidating, but with self-control, you can do it like a pro. A perfect paella has a crispy base that can’t be ruined by stirring too much. Once the sofrito is cooked, add the rice to the pan. Spread it out into a thin layer and then let it rest. Although it’s hard to resist the temptation to stir the ingredients often, you shouldn’t. You’ll ruin the beauty of the socca and it won’t be what you intended. It will become “rice with stuff,” which is a derogatory term for an inauthentic paella. With the right price and the right pan, you can make a restaurant dish at home.
