Preparation:
Prepare all ingredients before beginning assembly. Scrub clams well. Cook shrimp or buy pre-cooked. Slice sausage and chop the ham. Cut chicken into serving sized pieces. Cook green peas until barely tender. Chop onions and bruise garlic; mince if you prefer stronger garlic taste.
1. Use a very heavy skillet to heat the olive oil. Add 4-5 pounds of cut-up skinned chicken pieces. Brown well on all sides then add 1/2 cup water. Cover tightly and cook until chicken is tender, about 30-35 minutes. 2. Remove chicken from pan and set aside. Add the onion and garlic cloves (slightly bruised) to the pan juices; cook slowly for 5 minutes. 3. In a medium saucepan, melt margarine then add uncooked rice and a pinch of saffron; do not use too much saffron. Stir over low heat for 5 minutes. Add 4 cups broth or broth and water mixed. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook on low heat for 17-18 minutes. 4. Stir the rice mixture into the pan with the onions and garlic. Add green peas and blend well. 5. Use a 4-quart casserole or a paella pan to finish preparations. Layer the rice, chicken, shrimp, ham and sausage in pan. Bury some of the clams partially into the mixture. Place rest of clams on top. Bake at 350 degrees until paella is heated through and clams are open. Discard any clams that do not open.
Serving Ideas : Almost a complete meal -- just add bread and salad. |
