Spanish Paella Day

Paella is originally from Valencia. Paella got its name from the pan it is cooked in. Paella is one of the best-known Spanish dishes outside Spain with many non-Spaniards even considering it Spain’s national dish. Spaniards however, see it as a dish from the Valencia region and not as a symbol of cultural identity. How exactly the paella rose to fame is unclear. What’s better documented is that it was served at international fairs, conferences, and diplomatic meetings dating back as far as the 19th century. This must be one of the most myth-busting fun facts about paella!

While the most well-known versions of the dish are covered in shrimp and mussels, traditional paella is altogether meatier. A real paella Valenciana is made with chicken and rabbit (and often snails), spiced with sweet paprika and a few strands of golden saffron.