This Breakfast Paella is a wonderful fusion of hearty ingredients like chorizo, eggs, and rice, delivering a rich and savory start to your day. With paprika and saffron adding depth, and beans and sofrito contributing both texture and flavor, this dish is a vibrant medley of Spanish-inspired ingredients.

The simple yet striking presentation of golden rice, topped with soft-cooked eggs and garnished with parsley, makes it perfect for a weekend brunch or a family breakfast. Serve it straight from the pan with lemon wedges for an added tangy touch. It’s sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 8 ounces Spanish chorizo, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup kidney beans, drained
• 2 tablespoons sofrito
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup peas
• 4 large eggs
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a paella pan or large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and chorizo. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add rice, salt, paprika, and saffron. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth, kidney beans, sofrito, olives, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, shaking the pan occasionally for 12-15 minutes. The rice should be almost done but still firm. Remove bay leaves.
5. Gently fold in the peas without disturbing the bottom of the pan.
6. Make 4 indentations in the rice and crack one egg into each. Cover and simmer until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain soft (about 7-10 minutes).
7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Breakfast Paella is a Spanish-inspired dish that combines traditional paella elements like rice, saffron, and chorizo with breakfast staples such as eggs. This fusion recipe is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for brunch or a savory morning meal. Below are additional details about the dish:

Key Ingredients:

• Chorizo: A Spanish sausage that adds a smoky, spicy flavor. It’s typically made from pork and seasoned with paprika.
• Saffron: A fragrant spice that gives the dish its signature yellow hue and a subtle earthy flavor.
• Rice: Short-grain rice is used, which is typical in traditional paella, allowing it to absorb the flavors well.
• Eggs: Soft-cooked on top of the paella, the eggs add richness and protein to the dish.
• Sofrito: A Spanish cooking base made from sautéed tomatoes, garlic, and onions, adding depth to the dish.
• Kidney Beans: Adds heartiness and makes the dish more filling.

Cooking Method:

• The ingredients are sautéed and simmered in a paella pan or cast iron skillet. This one-pan cooking method ensures that the rice absorbs all the flavorful ingredients like chorizo and sofrito.
• Unlike traditional paella, which might use seafood or chicken, this version includes breakfast-friendly ingredients like eggs. The eggs are cracked into indentations in the rice and then poached as the dish simmers.

Flavor Profile:

• Savory and slightly spicy from the chorizo and paprika, balanced with the delicate earthiness of saffron.
• The olives and sofrito introduce a tangy and umami flavor, while the beans and peas give texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Traditionally served straight from the skillet, the Breakfast Paella can be garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
• It’s a filling dish that pairs well with simple sides like fresh fruit or a light salad.

Versatility:

• You can substitute the chorizo with other sausages like Andouille or even a vegetarian sausage for a plant-based version.
• Add or swap vegetables based on your preference, such as using zucchini or artichokes instead of peas.

More Details about Breakfast Paella:

Origin of the Dish:
Paella originated in Spain, specifically in the Valencia region, where it was traditionally cooked over an open fire. The name “paella” comes from the Latin word for “pan,” which refers to the wide, shallow cooking vessel used to make the dish. This breakfast version adapts the traditional concept of paella to morning meals, blending Spanish ingredients with breakfast elements like eggs.

Why It Works for Breakfast:
The Breakfast Paella is a fantastic morning meal because it combines protein, carbs, and vegetables in a single dish. The rice provides sustained energy, while the chorizo and eggs offer a protein boost to keep you full and satisfied. The dish is also packed with flavor, which makes it much more exciting than a typical breakfast of toast or cereal.

Tips for Perfect Breakfast Paella:

1. Saffron Substitution:
   If saffron is not available, you can use a small pinch of turmeric for color. While it won’t replicate saffron’s delicate flavor, it will give the dish a lovely golden hue.
2. Crispy Bottom Layer (Socarrat):
   In traditional paella, the rice at the bottom of the pan forms a crispy layer called “socarrat.” To achieve this in your Breakfast Paella, resist the urge to stir the rice too much. Allow it to sit on the heat after simmering to create that golden, crispy crust.
3. Cooking the Eggs to Perfection:
   The eggs should be cooked just right—set whites with thick, runny yolks. You can cover the pan with a lid to help the eggs cook evenly. For a softer yolk, cook for about 7 minutes. If you prefer the yolks firmer, leave them for up to 10 minutes.
4. Chorizo Alternatives:
   If you don’t have chorizo or want to reduce the spiciness, you can use bacon, ham, or smoked sausage. For a lighter option, turkey sausage or even plant-based sausages work great too.
5. Vegetable Variations:
   This recipe can be easily modified to include more vegetables. You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or artichokes for additional texture and flavor. The key is to sauté the veggies until soft before adding them to the rice.
6. Make it Dairy-Free or Vegan:
   By swapping out the chorizo with a plant-based sausage and skipping the eggs, this dish can easily become vegan. You can also add a splash of soy milk or coconut cream for a touch of creaminess if desired.

What Makes Breakfast Paella Special?

It’s not just the flavors that stand out; it’s the combination of textures and the vibrant presentation. The contrast of soft, fluffy rice, crispy socarrat, and silky egg yolks makes every bite a treat. The ingredients are simple but come together to create a complex, satisfying dish that can be made for family brunches, special occasions, or even meal prep for the week.

Serving Ideas and Pairings:

1. Serve with Fresh Bread:
   A crusty baguette or toasted ciabatta pairs beautifully with Breakfast Paella, offering a perfect complement to soak up the yolks and juices.
2. Side Salad:
   A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the paella.
3. Beverage Pairing:
   Breakfast Paella can be paired with freshly squeezed orange juice or a Spanish-inspired sangria for brunch gatherings. For a lighter pairing, try herbal tea or iced coffee.
4. Leftovers Tip:
   Leftover Breakfast Paella can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick meal. Just add a bit of broth or water when reheating to restore its moisture.

Conclusion

Breakfast Paella is a flavorful and hearty twist on a Spanish classic, blending the rich, savory ingredients of traditional paella with the comfort of a morning meal. With its vibrant saffron-infused rice, spicy chorizo, tender vegetables, and perfectly poached eggs, this dish offers a unique way to start the day. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different proteins, vegetables, or seasonings, making it suitable for various tastes and dietary needs.

Ideal for family brunches, special occasions, or even as a meal-prep option, Breakfast Paella brings a burst of flavor and nutrition to your table. The combination of crispy rice, creamy eggs, and smoky chorizo makes it a satisfying dish that will impress any crowd. Whether you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine or just looking for a creative breakfast idea, this recipe delivers a hearty, balanced meal with rich textures and bold flavors.