Paella is a centuries-old traditional rice dish from Spain.  It is part of the fiber of Spanish life and the product of many generations of fine eating. The native land of paella is Valencia, Spain.  Paella is not Uncle Ben's rice which lobster, chicken and clams have been strewn on top to give a pretty appearance and to disguise the rice. Paella is most certainly not one dish, it is endless dishes made with almost any ingredient.   It is a technique for making many rice dishes that are generally united by the eye-catching paella pan in which they cook and by their cooking method.  The flavor depends on the ingredients that are combined with the rice and from which the rice soaks up its flavors.  Paella marries the robust Mediterranean flavors of olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and peppers with rice, broth, and meat, fish, or vegetables to create a healthy grain-based meal that will gratify the senses and be the centerpiece for exciting entertainment. . In the words of Placido Domingo, "Paella is the magnificent rice dish from my native Spain.  It is the quintessential dish of Spain, a veritable symphony of colors and flavors that delights both the eye and the palate."

                                                                              ALEJANDRO MONTES-GRANADA