Paella

[dsilver2]

I have been looking at the stove top paella recipe by Christine Gallary. Can it be mad ahead & reheated? If so, should any additional liquid be added? What kind?

Dottie Las vegas

[treb]

I would not make and re-heat. If you're having guests make the prep part of the fun and allow guests to nibble on an app or two while you're finishing the paella.

[chefj]

Paella only cooks for about 18 min. after you add the rice. You can make the Sofrito, Saute the Chicken and Chorizo ahead which will save some time.
It does not reheat well. Left overs are usually eaten at room temp, or transformed into Rissoles or Salad.

[lisalavery]

Hi Dottie,

We don't recommend holding and reheating recipes that have seafood (and in particular shellfish). This dish is definitely best enjoyed right after it's finished cooking. Also the crusty, caramelized layer of rice that forms on the bottom (called socarrat) might get mushy if you made it ahead of time...and that's the best part! Hope you enjoy this version. Give us a shout and let us know how it turned out for you!

Best,
Lisa Lavery
CHOW Test Kitchen

[dsilver2]

What if I don't add the seafood til I reheat?

Dottie

[lisalavery]

The rice really benefits from cooking with the seafood to add coastal, briny flavors to the finished dish, so changing this step would change the recipe outcome. Hope this helps!

Lisa