Indulge in the culinary treasure of Spain's Galicia region with our exquisite Arroz con Almejas. This traditional dish combines the freshest clams from the Galician coast with tender, aromatic rice, cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, saffron, and a touch of white wine. Each spoonful transports you to the rugged shores of Galicia, where the salty sea breeze meets the warmth of authentic Spanish cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family meal or showcased as a star dish at your next gathering, Galician Arroz con Almejas promises a culinary experience that celebrates the rich flavors of the sea and the land.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Spanish short-grain rice (such as bomba or Calasparra)
• 1 kg (about 2 lbs) fresh clams, cleaned and scrubbed
• 4 cups fish or seafood broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1- In a small bowl, crush the saffron threads with a mortar and pestle. Pour the white wine over the crushed saffron and set aside to infuse.

2- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or paella pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3- Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it evenly with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture. Toast the rice for a couple of minutes until it becomes translucent.

4- Pour in the saffron-infused white wine, stirring continuously until the wine is absorbed by the rice.

5- Add the fish or seafood broth to the pot, a ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is almost cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

6- While the rice is cooking, in a separate pot, steam the cleaned clams with a splash of water until they open. Discard any clams that do not open.

7- Once the rice is almost cooked and most of the broth has been absorbed, gently nestle the steamed clams into the rice. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the remaining broth to be absorbed.

8- Season the Arroz con Almejas with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

9- Serve the Galician Arroz con Almejas hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

Enjoy this delicious taste of Galicia!

nutritional values:

Spanish Short-Grain Rice (2 cups):

• Calories: 440 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 96g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits

• Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains some protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Low in fat and a source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion

Fresh Clams (1 kg):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 44g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• High in protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
• Low in fat and calories, making them a nutritious seafood option.

Fish or Seafood Broth (4 cups):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Contains essential nutrients from the fish or seafood used, such as omega-3 fatty acids.
• Provides hydration and can help maintain electrolyte balance.
• Can support immune function and gut health.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, such as quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that promote gut health.
• Provides vitamin C and other micronutrients essential for immune function.

Garlic (4 cloves):

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Known for its immune-boosting properties due to its sulfur-containing compounds.
• May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage.

Dry White Wine (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 121 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Contains antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which may have heart-healthy benefits.
• Can enhance flavors in cooking without adding significant calories.
• May have moderate benefits for cardiovascular health when consumed in moderation.

Saffron Threads (A pinch):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Has been studied for its potential mood-enhancing effects.
• Adds a unique flavor and color to dishes.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 477 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 54g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which may have heart-healthy benefits.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage.
• May help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels when used as part of a balanced diet.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and specific ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are per serving and based on typical portion sizes for the recipe.