A vibrant one-pan seafood rice dish infused with classic Spanish techniques and beloved Filipino flavors.
Seafood Paella with a Filipino Twist is a celebration of two culinary traditions. Introduced during the Spanish colonial period, paella has long inspired Filipino cooks to create festive rice dishes using local ingredients. This version combines shrimp, mussels, squid, and fish with garlic, tomatoes, fish sauce (patis), calamansi, and optional crab fat (aligue), creating a rich, savory meal that feels both familiar and special. Perfect for fiestas, family reunions, and holiday gatherings, this dish showcases the Philippines’ abundant seafood while honoring the Spanish roots of paella.
Seafood Paella with a Filipino Twist
Description
Spanish seafood paella with filipino twist loaded with shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and saffron-infused rice that's perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Roast the Garlic
- Roast one whole garlic bulb until soft.
- Mash with butter and set aside.
-
Cook the Seafood
- Heat olive oil.
- Sear shrimp for one minute per side.
- Cook squid for 30 seconds.
- Steam mussels and clams until opened.
- Remove seafood and reserve.
-
Make the Sofrito
- In the same pan:
- Cook onions until translucent.
- Add minced garlic.
- Stir in grated tomatoes.
- Cook until thick.
- Mix in paprika and turmeric.
- In the same pan:
-
Toast the Rice
- Add the rice.
- Cook for two minutes until lightly coated.
-
Add the Broth
- Combine:
- seafood stock
- coconut milk
- clam juice
- saffron
- fish sauce
- Pour over the rice.
- Do not stir again.
- Simmer for about 18–20 minutes
- Combine:
-
Add the Seafood
- Arrange shrimp, squid, fish, mussels, clams, peas, and roasted peppers on top.
- Cover loosely.
- Cook another 8–10 minutes.
-
Finish
- Spread the roasted garlic butter over the rice.
- Increase heat for 1–2 minutes to create a crispy socarrat.
- Top with parsley and crispy fried garlic.
- Serve with lemon wedges and fresh calamansi.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 540kcal
- Vitamin A 18 IU
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Tips
- Warm the seafood stock before adding it to the rice.
- Never stir after the broth has been added.
- Let the paella rest for 8–10 minutes before serving.
- Finish with flaky sea salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for restaurant-quality flavor.
