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Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Paella

Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Paella

Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Paella is a meat-free version of the classic Spanish dish. It features a mix of fresh vegetables, saffron-infused rice, and aromatic spices, all cooked together in a wide pan to create a flavorful and colorful meal. It’s a wholesome and hearty dish that’s perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Spain.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 pinch saffron threads (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)
  • 300g paella rice (or Arborio rice)
  • 750ml vegetable stock
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or wide skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

  • Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

  • Add the sliced bell peppers, diced zucchini, green beans, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 4: Add the Spices

  • Stir in the smoked paprika, turmeric, and soaked saffron (with its water). Mix well to coat the vegetables.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

  • Add the paella rice and stir to coat it in the spices. Pour in the vegetable stock and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Simmer the Paella

  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, without stirring, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7: Add the Peas

  • Scatter the frozen peas over the paella during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

  • Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.