One of the most beloved dishes from a global point of view is a dish called paella. With roots in Valencia Spain this ethnic dish is one dish like no other. It is incredibly versatile and is known for its eclectic mixture of ingredients which give it unique flavor and texture. Spain is best known for its different versions of paella dishes. This is because they are equally pleasing to a number of different taste buds and food preferences.

What is paella? The term Paella, derived from the Latin word "patella," and the English word "pail, which refers to an iron cooking utensil. Paella therefore refers to the utensil used in preparing the food, which is a wide, flat iron pan that is shallow with handles on both sides. The dish paella, is known for its combination of rice, meat, seafood and spices that when combined provide a hearty meal that is aesthetically appealing with a fusion of flavors.

Why does Spain have the best paellas? The reason why Spain is known for having the best paella is because this dish originated in Spain and has many stories which date back many centuries. The original dish was made with a combination of meats such as rabbit and chicken. Overtime people have created their own versions of this dish, which make it ideal for just about everyone. This is one of the reasons why it is such a popular dish. Some paella is made with seafood, while some are made with vegetables for the more health conscious individuals. Whole-grain rice can also be substituted for white rice, if high fat and calories are your primary concern.

Many Valencians claim to make the best authentic paella because they define the best paella as being al dente. People in southern part of Spain tend to favor paella that has more of a soup like texture.

An essential ingredient for authentic paella in Barcelonais saffron. This gives the paella its wonderful vibrant trademark golden color which it is known for. It also gives the paella a very distinct flavor that will have an aromatic appeal while it is being cooked. Homemade stock also adds to the authenticity of this dish and gives it added flavor. Frying the rice a few minutes before adding the homemade stock will also give it more flavors. What are the most common paellas? There are a variety of different paellas, but the ones that tend to be the most popular and well known are broken into three different categories. Below are the three different types of paellas

Different Versions of Paella: since paella has many different versions, anyone can enjoy this delightful Spanish dish. If you are not a fan of meat or chicken there are also vegetarian versions of paella. You can order one with fresh vegetables sauted to perfection. You can even ask for whole grain rice, which is great for those who are health conscious eaters.

There are also several elements that give paella its own texture and taste. You have the rice which gives the dish consistency and added flavor. The meat, chicken or seafood gives dimension and supplies a good amount of protein. You also have the vegetables which give a nice light yet healthful meal with their own undertones of flavor.

If you are a fan of a little bit of everything, then the paella dish that is made with seafood, vegetables and chicken is a dish that is very popular. Not only does this specific paella dish give you more variety, but it also gives you a number of different flavors as well.

The reason short grain rice is used in paella is because it allows the stock of the soup to be fully absorbed. It also gives the rice added flavor without becoming mushy.

Paella Vegetariana- is a favorite among avid vegetarians. It contains an array of different vegetables, such as artichokes, eggplant and peppers.

But if you want authentically made Spanish cuisine paella is the way to go. Try one of these excellent versions of paella and you might just fall in love with its intricate use of spices and fusion of flavors. Eating never sounded so good and your taste buds will be happy campers. So the next time you are in Barcelona make sure to try one of these versions of Paella, who knows you may have found your favorite Spanish dish.