James Martin’s Shetland paella

James Martin’s Shetland paella

Discover the flavors of Shetland with James Martin’s Shetland Paella, a delightful recipe that showcases the best of local fish and shellfish, paying homage to the fishermen of Shetland. This dish, featuring a sumptuous combination of chicken, prawns, and mussels, is a testament to the rich culinary heritage and the bountiful seas surrounding Shetland.

James Martin’s Shetland Paella: A Culinary Journey

This dish is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of Shetland's fishing tradition and its contribution to the culinary world. With ingredients sourced from the cold, clear waters around the islands, this paella is a tribute to the hardworking fishermen, particularly Rob, who provided the catch for this recipe​​.

Ingredients for the Shetland Paella

  • Olive oil: 50ml
  • Onion: 1, peeled and chopped
  • Garlic cloves: 2, peeled and crushed
  • Sweet smoked paprika: 2 tsp
  • Saffron: A pinch
  • Paella rice: 300g
  • Rosemary: 2 sprigs, chopped
  • Tinned chopped tomatoes: 400g
  • Chicken stock: 500ml
  • Water: 400ml
  • Chicken breast: 400g, sliced
  • Prawns: 200g, shell on
  • Mussels: 600g

To serve:

  • Lemon juice: from 1 lemon
  • Flat leaf parsley: a small bunch
  • Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

  1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan or paella pan, then fry the chicken for a few minutes until it starts to gain color.
  2. Add the onions, garlic, paprika, saffron, and rosemary, followed by the paella rice and tinned tomatoes along with the chicken stock and water.
  3. Allow the mixture to simmer, blending the flavors together, before adding the seafood towards the end of the cooking process.
  4. Once fully cooked, garnish with parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and season to taste​​.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, ensure the paella is cooled quickly and refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking. Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 days. For reheating, make sure it's piping hot throughout before serving.

Nutritional Information

The dish is a good source of protein from chicken and seafood and provides carbohydrates from the rice. It's relatively low in fat, with healthy fats coming from the olive oil. The saffron and paprika also add antioxidants.

FAQ about the Shetland Paella

  • Can I substitute any of the seafood? Yes, feel free to adjust the seafood based on availability, ensuring it's fresh and of good quality.
  • Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this paella? Absolutely, replace the chicken and seafood with a variety of vegetables and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

In creating the Shetland Paella, James Martin has provided a culinary snapshot of Shetland, celebrating its culture, history, and the natural bounty of its seas. This dish is not just a feast for the palate but also a nod to the community's resilience and the beauty of its traditions.

For more detailed instructions and insights into this recipe, visit James Martin's official website​​.

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