How to find the right paella pan for your favorite dish

The paella is a rice dish originating from Spain, which in the panis prepared. It is the national dish of the Spanish East Coast and the Region of Valencia. Already the name suggests the type of preparation: „Paella“ derives from the Latin expression „patella“ (flat metal bowl / large plate). Traditionally, the paella is cooked in a cast-iron pan. The exact type of preparation is regionally different in Spain, since different tastes and customs exist. For home cooking, the „Garcima paella pan Valencia“ is a good choice. The series includes pans of different diameters. The 26 centimeter version is suitable for up to 2 people. In the case of larger groups of people, the 70 centimeter pan is the right choice. Prepare delicious dishes for 25 people. For the extended family, the 40-centimeter variant should be a good decision. The bottom diameter is 35 centimeters. The pan is provided with two side handles and can therefore be used for serving at the table. The weight is around 1.73 kilograms. You can use the paella pan in the ovento put on gas or on fire.

The different properties of the pans

The paella pan can be made of steel, as is the case with the „Garcima La ideal Paella pan“. Many cooks are enthusiastic about this material and praise the good cooking results. The 46-centimeter pan is suitable for cooking up to 14 people. The net weight of the paella pan is given by the manufacturer as 2.81 kilograms. Visually striking are the two red handles. The „Kitchen Craft Paella Pan“ has a size of 46 centimeters. It is non-stick coated, so the food does not burn. To prevent damage to the material, hand wash is mandatory for this pan. When selecting the pans, you must first pay attention to the size. Most manufacturers give not only the diameter but also references to the number of people. Note that the paella pan is lower than a classic one frying panis shaped. For this reason, the required diameter is usually larger than expected by many people. Whether you choose a non-stick coating depends on your personal preference. The coating prevents the food from sticking, but the roasting behavior is also changed. Stainless steel is considered more rustic and makes the food crispy faster.

The advantages and disadvantages of a coating

The non-stick coating makes it easier to clean the pan. However, a coating is not common in typical Spanish pans, but is preferred especially outside the country. You can prepare the rice almost safely even at low water levels, as it reduces the chance of burning. According to many manufacturers, the coated pans are suitable for use on conventional gas hobs and special burners. However, you should note that in the case of Teflon pans, a temperature limit should be limited to a maximum of 260 degrees, so that the material is not damaged. Ceramics or Teflon-like sealants are a possible alternative, but only for very few paella pans. Metal cooking utensils, such as knives or forks, should not be used in the pan as they can damage the coating. Gusa is a sturdy and traditional material for the paella pans. The benefits include the good cooking results. Stainless steel, however, is characterized by the lower weight. Warped floors are virtually non-existent. Although there is no non-stick coating, residues are usually easily removed if you clean the pan immediately after use. Which material you choose depends on personal preference and experience.