Vegan Mushroom Paella

Ingredients

Base

• 2 cups short-grain rice (Bomba or Arborio preferred)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (warm)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large tomato, grated (or ½ cup crushed tomatoes)

Mushrooms

• 2–3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced

Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp turmeric (or a pinch of saffron threads for authenticity)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables (optional but recommended)

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup green beans or peas

Finish

• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• Wide, shallow pan (paella pan if available)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base

1. Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in grated tomato and cook until it thickens and darkens slightly (5–7 minutes).

2. Cook the mushrooms

1. Add sliced mushrooms to the pan.
2. Cook until they release moisture and begin to brown (about 6–8 minutes).
3. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Add spices and rice

1. Stir in smoked paprika and turmeric (or saffron).
2. Add rice and stir well to coat it in the mixture (1–2 minutes).

4. Add broth and simmer

1. Pour in warm vegetable broth evenly.
2. Shake the pan gently to distribute ingredients.
3. Do not stir after this point (important for proper texture).
4. Add bell peppers and green beans on top.

Simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.

5. Create the socarrat (crispy bottom)

• Increase heat slightly for the last 2–3 minutes to form a golden crust at the bottom.
• You may hear a light crackling sound—this is expected. Avoid burning.

6. Rest and finish

1. Remove from heat and cover with a clean towel.
2. Let rest for 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle lemon juice and chopped parsley before serving.

Serving suggestions

• Serve directly from the pan
• Add lemon wedges on the side
• Pair with a simple salad or crusty bread

Tips for best results

• Use short-grain rice for authentic texture
• Do not stir after adding broth; this helps form the signature crust
• A wide pan ensures even cooking and better evaporation
• Mushrooms like shiitake add a stronger umami flavor