BYPILLOW Times

30/07/2024

The authentic paella: try the best
at these restaurants in Valencia

In Spanish cuisine, there are many delicious rice recipes, but the most internationally recognized one is paella. At BYPILLOW, we want your getaway to Valencia to have that extra touch of gastronomy and culture. Therefore, in this post, we’ll give you all the keys to identify an authentic paella and recommend some of the most popular paella restaurants in Valencia, according to the locals. Enjoy!

How to Identify an Authentic Paella 

 

Paella is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural symbol of Spain, especially the Valencian Community, and every corner of the country has its version. However, to identify an authentic paella among the many variations, it’s essential to know the key elements that define this classic dish.

Here’s a guide based on its traditional ingredients, the rice texture, flavor, and sofrito, as well as cooking methods.

Traditional ingredients of paella

An authentic paella is cooked with a combination of traditional ingredients that have been perfected over the centuries. The essential elements are:

Valencia Rice: This short or medium-grain rice is crucial because it can absorb liquids and flavors without losing its texture.

Chicken and Rabbit: These are the most common meat ingredients in traditional paella. Their mix provides a perfect balance of flavors.

Chickpeas and Green Beans: Known as garrofó and green beans respectively, these vegetables add texture and flavor.

Tomato: Grated or pureed, tomato is fundamental for the sofrito that gives the dish its characteristic flavor.

Saffron: This spice gives the distinctive golden color and unique flavor.

Olive Oil: Good extra virgin olive oil is essential for a proper sofrito and cooking the ingredients.

The texture of the rice

Rice is the soul of paella, and its texture can determine the quality of the dish. An authentic paella should have loose rice, meaning the grains should be separate, not sticky or clumped together. This ensures that each bite has the right texture.

Additionally, the rice should be cooked al dente, with a firm but not hard texture. If it’s too soft, it has been overcooked; if it’s raw, it needs more time.

The sofrito of Valencian paella

The sofrito is the flavor base of the paella and must be very flavorful. To make it ideally, you should know that the sofrito, which is cooked very slowly, should be a well-integrated mix of tomato, garlic, and paprika.

The paella should have an intense golden hue, thanks to the saffron and well-made sofrito. The richness of the color indicates that the sofrito has been cooked to perfection.

How is Valencian paella cooked?

The cooking method is crucial to achieving an authentic paella. Traditionally, paella is best cooked over a wood fire, as this imparts a subtle smoky flavor that can’t be achieved with other methods. The wood fire provides uniform and constant heat essential for achieving the ideal rice texture and flavor development.

At BYPILLOW, we encourage you to travel to the Valencian Community to enjoy a truly classic and traditional paella. On our website, you’ll find the best hotels in Valencia and the best hotels in Alicante, allowing you to stay in modern and comfortable establishments while delighting in one of the most exquisite dishes you’ve ever tasted. You’ll see, you’ll love it! 😉

Recommended Paella Restaurants in Valencia

 

Now that you know how to identify an authentic paella, it’s time to taste it! In the capital, there are plenty of expert restaurants where you can enjoy its delicious flavor.

Here is a selection of the most recommended restaurants, each with its own approach and tradition in preparing paella.

Restaurante La Pepica

Location: Paseo Neptuno, Playa de la Malvarrosa, Valencia

Founded in 1898, La Pepica is an icon of Valencian gastronomy. Its long history and proximity to Malvarrosa beach make it a special place to enjoy a traditional paella. The restaurant has maintained its essence over the years, and its paella recipe remains faithful to Valencia’s traditional roots. The sea views and historic ambiance add a unique charm to your dining experience.

Casa Roberto

Location: Calle Maestro Gozalbo, downtown Valencia

Casa Roberto is another top paella restaurant in Valencia, known for its dedication to authentic Valencian paella. Located in the heart of Valencia, this restaurant specializes in maintaining tradition while offering a high-quality culinary experience. The attention to detail in preparation and the authenticity of its ingredients make Casa Roberto an excellent choice for paella purists.

Restaurante Levante

Location: Avenida de Navarro Reverter, downtown Valencia

Levante is another recommended restaurant in Valencia, known for its expertise in paella. This establishment stands out for its Valencian paella made with top-quality ingredients. In an elegant and cozy setting, the restaurant offers a gastronomic experience that highlights the classic flavor of paella. The quality of the ingredients and the precision in preparation make Levante a highly recommended place to enjoy an authentic paella.

Casa Carmela

Location: Avenida Neptuno, 64, Playa de la Malvarrosa, Valencia

With over 90 years of history, Casa Carmela is a reference for paella lovers cooked over a wood fire. Its long trajectory and wood-fire cooking technique provide a unique flavor that sets Casa Carmela apart. Also located near Malvarrosa beach, it offers an authentic experience in a charming setting.

La Marcelina

Location: Paseo Neptuno, Playa de la Malvarrosa, Valencia

La Marcelina is another classic of Malvarrosa, known for its long tradition in making paellas and rice dishes. Its beachfront location and commitment to quality and authenticity make this restaurant a must-visit. La Marcelina combines tradition with a culinary experience to enjoy authentic Valencian paella.

Discovering how to identify an authentic paella is essential to fully enjoy this dish that has become international. By paying attention to the traditional ingredients, the perfect rice texture, the deep flavor of the sofrito, and the cooking methods, you can ensure you’re tasting a paella that respects tradition and quality.

For an authentic and memorable culinary experience, we recommend visiting the most outstanding restaurants in Valencia. Each offers a unique interpretation of paella, combining history, technique, and a passion for cooking. From the centenary tradition of La Pepica and Casa Carmela to the dedication to authenticity at Casa Roberto and Levante and the classic flavor of La Marcelina, these establishments will let you enjoy paella in its purest and most delicious form.

At BYPILLOW, we offer accommodations in Valencia and hotels in Alicante known for their modern facilities, attention to detail, and central locations. In our hotels, you can enjoy the authentic essence of the Valencian Community, explore its streets, discover its fascinating culture, and, of course, recharge with a good paella!

Book your stay at our hotels and live a unique adventure! Enjoy the comfort and hospitality of our accommodations while exploring the best of these two cities. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic paellas at the region’s most recommended restaurants. Our hotels are strategically located, allowing easy access to the best gastronomic and cultural destinations.

Make your reservation today and prepare for a journey full of discoveries, from the history and beauty of Valencia to the unparalleled flavors of Alicante’s paellas. We await you with open arms to offer you an experience you’ll always remember!

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