πΏ Flavour-Packed Spanish-Inspired Quinoa Paella πΏ
π₯ Bold, Vibrant & Gut-Friendly!
This amped-up, spice-forward take on Spanish paella is packed with rich, smoky, and umami flavours with a vibrant mix of veggies, protein-rich quinoa, and crunchy toasted almonds. The miso (added at the end) preserves its gut-health benefits, while a squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley brighten every bite. A satisfying, nourishing meal thatβs full of plant-powered goodness!
π₯ Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
Base Ingredients:
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1 cup Quinoa
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2 ΒΌ cups vegetable broth
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1 large leek, white & light green parts, thinly sliced
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1 cup mushrooms, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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Β½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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Β½ cup frozen peas
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1 cup chickpeas, drained & rinsed
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1 tbsp medicinal mushroom powder (optional, for gut & immune support)
Spices & Flavour Boosters:
π§ 2 tsp smoked paprika πΆοΈ for deep, smoky warmth
π§ 1 tsp ground cumin for earthy depth
π§ 1 tsp oregano for herbal balance
π§ 1 tsp turmeric πΏ for anti-inflammatory benefits & colour
π§ 1 tsp garlic powder for extra punch
π§ 1 tsp onion powder for depth
π§ Β½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
π§ Β½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (essential for turmeric absorption)
π§ Salt to taste
Optional Umami Boost:
β¨ 1 tbsp miso paste (added at the end to preserve probiotics)
Garnish & Finishing Touches:
π Lemon wedges (for serving)
πΏ Fresh parsley, chopped
π₯ ΒΌ cup toasted almonds, oven-roasted for crunch
π©βπ³ Instructions:
1οΈβ£ SautΓ© the first veggies:
- In a large pan, water-sautΓ© leeks & mushrooms over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
2οΈβ£ Add the next layer of veggies:
- Stir in garlic & red bell pepper, and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
3οΈβ£ Toast the spices & quinoa:
- Add smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in quinoa and toast for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavour.
4οΈβ£ Simmer the paella:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and frozen peas.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes, until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
5οΈβ£ Toast the almonds:
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
6οΈβ£ Create the Crispy Bottom (Socarrat):
- Once the quinoa has absorbed most of the liquid, stop stirring and increase the heat to medium-high for 1-2 minutes.
- Listen for a gentle crackling soundβthis means the bottom is caramelizing! π₯
- Turn off the heat and let the paella rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7οΈβ£ Stir in miso (if using):
- Remove from heat and stir in miso paste, mixing well to distribute without overheating (to preserve probiotics).
- Stir in medicinal mushroom powder (if using).
8οΈβ£ Serve & enjoy:
- Fluff the quinoa, then top with toasted almonds, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges for brightness! πβ¨
πͺ Nutrition & Protein Boost
β High in Plant-Based Protein: Each serving packs 15g+ protein thanks to quinoa, chickpeas, and peas.
β Gut & Immune Health: Medicinal mushrooms and probiotic-friendly miso (added at the end) support digestion and immunity.
β Anti-Inflammatory Power: Turmeric + black pepper work together to maximize curcumin absorption, helping fight inflammation.
β Satisfying & Balanced: The bold spice blend, protein, and healthy fats from toasted almonds keep you full longer.
π Want to Punch Up the Flavour Even More? Try This!
If you love big, bold flavours, here are some extra ways to take it to the next level:
π₯ Increase smoked paprika to 3 tsp for even deeper smokiness.
π₯ Add ΒΌ tsp liquid smoke for a richer, fire-kissed depth.
π₯ Double the miso to 2 tbsp for more umami (if using).
π₯ Stir in 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savoury boost.
π₯ Add 1 tsp tamari or coconut aminos for even more depth.
π₯ Brighten with zest of 1 lemon (not just the juice!).
π₯ Mix in 1 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar at the end for a tangy contrast.
π₯ Increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp or add a dash of cayenne for more heat!
π½οΈ Final Thoughts
This bold, spice-forward paella delivers a burst of flavour, crunch, and nourishment in every bite! Whether youβre looking for a protein-rich meal, a gut-friendly dish, or simply something delicious and filling, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Try it out and let me know what you think! ππ₯ππ₯
