Saffron-Infused Vegan Paella

Vibrant Saffron-Infused Vegan Paella: A Taste of Spain in Your Kitchen

Our foodie journey brings the sun-soaked flavors of Spain right to your dinner table with our Saffron-Infused Vegan Paella. This dish not only offers a hearty, plant-based meal but also encapsulates the vibrant essence of traditional Spanish cooking, all while being accessible and easy to prepare.

Spanish Inspiration!

The inspiration behind this dish comes from the colorful coastlines of Spain, where paella is a symbol of gathering and festivity. This vegan version preserves the integrity and spirit of the original by incorporating rich, earthy flavors and a variety of textures from an array of fresh vegetables and spices, making it perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, flavor-packed meal.

Why You’ll Love It

• Authentically Flavorful: The saffron and smoked paprika lend a deep, complex flavor that is unmistakably Spanish.
• Versatile and Nourishing: Packed with vegetables and aromatic spices, this paella is a complete meal that caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.
• Simplicity in Preparation: Despite its luxurious appearance, this paella is surprisingly straightforward to make, suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
• Visually Impressive: Bright colors and a festive presentation make this dish a joy to serve, guaranteed to impress your guests or family.

Quick Grocery List

For the Saffron Broth:

• Vegetable broth (low sodium)
• Saffron threads
• Smoked paprika
• Turmeric

For the Paella Base:

• Olive oil
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• Bell peppers
• Cherry tomatoes
• Paella rice (Bomba or Arborio)

For the Vegetables:

• Green beans
• Chickpeas
• Artichoke hearts
• Frozen peas

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

• Prep & Cook Time: Approximately 55 minutes from start to finish.
• Equipment Checklist: Paella pan or large skillet, saucepan for the broth, wooden spoon, and ladle.
• Dietary Adjustments: Completely vegan and gluten-free, ensuring it’s suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
• Serving Size: Generously serves 4-6, making it ideal for family meals or meal prepping.

Saffron-Infused Vegan Paella – Easy Plant-Based Spanish Rice Dish with Vegetables & Bold Mediterranean Flavor

DifficultyMedium

Servings4-6

Prep time20 minutes

Cook time35 minutes

Total time55 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Saffron Broth:

• 3 cups vegetable broth, (low sodium)
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp turmeric, (for extra color)

For the Paella Base:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ½ cup paella rice, (Bomba or Arborio)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in halves
• 1 cup canned or cooked chickpeas, drained
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered, (from jar or can)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, (no need to thaw)

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Smoked paprika sprinkle

Instructions:

• 1

  1. Prepare the Saffron Broth

  1. In a small saucepan, warm the vegetable broth over low heat.
  2. Add saffron threads, smoked paprika, and turmeric.
  3. Let the broth steep while you prep the veggies (about 10–15 minutes).
• 2

  2. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large paella pan or wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until slightly blistered, about 2 minutes.
• 3

  3. Add the Rice

  1. Stir in the rice, coating it well with the vegetables and oil.
  2. Let it toast lightly for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• 4

  4. Pour in the Saffron Broth

  1. Slowly pour the warm saffron-infused broth into the pan.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Arrange green beans, chickpeas, artichoke hearts, and peas on top.
  4. Do not stir once the broth is added—this helps form a traditional crust (socarrat) at the bottom.
• 5

  5. Simmer & Cook

  1. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the paella simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  2. If needed, add a bit more hot water or broth toward the end.
• 6

  6. Rest & Serve

  1. Remove from heat and cover with a clean kitchen towel for 5 minutes to let steam finish cooking the rice.
  2. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

• Paella pan or wide shallow skillet
• Saucepan (for broth)
• Cutting board & knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Ladle

Nutrition

Calories	330
Carbohydrates	50g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	9g
Fiber	7g
Protein	9g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	420mg
Sugar	5g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	7g

Substitutions

• Rice Alternatives: Can’t find Bomba rice? Arborio or even a sturdy short-grain rice can be substituted.
• Vegetable Swaps: Flexible to seasonal availability—try mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or diced zucchini for variations.
• Protein Options: Enhance the protein content by adding lentils or different types of beans in place of chickpeas.

Variations

• Extra Protein: Integrate cubed tofu or tempeh for an added protein boost, enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
• Low-Fat Version: Reduce the olive oil and omit the coconut milk, substituting it with more vegetable broth for a lighter fare.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of harissa for those who prefer a spicier kick.

Let’s Get Cooking

Pro Tips for Mastering Paella:

• Achieving the Perfect Socarrat: For that coveted crispy bottom, increase the heat in the last 5 minutes of cooking and watch closely to ensure it does not burn.
• Layering Flavors: Build flavors by sautéing onions, garlic, and spices thoroughly before adding the rice and broth.
• Balanced Cooking: Ensure even cooking by arranging the rice and vegetables in a thin, even layer across the pan.

Art Of

The art of making paella lies in the balance of its ingredients and the technique of cooking rice perfectly infused with flavors. This vegan version stays true to its Spanish roots by focusing on the infusion of saffron and the creation of socarrat, the slightly toasted bottom layer of rice that is highly prized in authentic paella.

Tips and Variations

• Socarrat Tips: Keep the pan stationary in the final minutes of cooking to develop the socarrat without stirring.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine to the vegetables before adding the broth for an added depth of flavor.
• Garnish Galore: Top with extra lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a bright and appetizing finish.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 330 – Perfect for a filling main course.
• Carbohydrates: 50g – Energizing and satisfying, primarily from rice and vegetables.
• Protein: 9g – Essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
• Fat: 9g – Mostly healthy fats from olive oil.
• Fiber: 7g – Aids in digestion and provides a feeling of fullness.
• Saturated Fat: 1g – Keeps the dish heart-healthy.
• Sodium: 420mg – Moderate amount, consider adjusting if on a low-sodium diet.
• Sugar: 5g – Naturally occurring from vegetables, no added sugars.
• Cholesterol: 0mg – Ideal for cardiovascular health.
• Trans Fat: 0g – Promotes better health by avoiding trans fats.
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g – Beneficial for heart health, provided by olive oil.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Best reheated on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist and to help recreate some of the socarrat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the entire paella and reheat it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Q: How can I ensure my paella is gluten-free?
A: Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and ensure that all your broth and spice mixtures are certified gluten-free.

Engage and Share

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Saffron-Infused Vegan Paella as much as we do. Share your experience, snap a photo, and tag us! Got questions or want to show off your paella masterpiece? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!

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