Paella Ibicenca – is it worth trying?

Paella Ibicenca – a traditional dish from the Balearics

Paella Ibicenca is one of the most recognizable dishes of Balearic cuisine, worth trying at least once in a lifetime. Traditionally, it comes from Ibiza, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands. This unique dish differs from the famous Valencian paella, which is known worldwide.

Ingredients – what makes it stand out?

The traditional Paella Ibicenca is dominated by a mix of meat and seafood, but its uniqueness lies in local ingredients. In the paella, you can find rabbits, chickens, and even snails. The use of dried pollock or other fish found in the Mediterranean Sea is also characteristic. A key element is saffron, which gives the rice a golden color and a delicate, specific flavor.

An aromatic feast – the preparation process

Preparing Paella Ibicenca is a true art. The process starts with frying the meat in olive oil with the addition of garlic and onion. Then, vegetables and seafood are added to create a balanced flavor composition. Finally, rice, saffron, and broth are added to the pot, bringing together all the ingredients into one cohesive dish.

Is it worth trying this version of paella?

Paella Ibicenca is a feast for the senses that deserves the attention of every good food lover. Its rich flavor and aroma are unique, and the diversity of ingredients makes each bite intriguing with a different combination of flavors. It is also a dish that introduces the atmosphere of the Balearics – sun, sea, and Mediterranean vegetation.

Paella Ibicenca versus other versions of paella

| Type of Paella | Main ingredients | Region of origin |
|———————-|—————————————|———————-|
| Paella Ibicenca | Rabbit meat, chicken, seafood | Ibiza |
| Paella Valenciana | Rabbit, snails, vegetables | Valencia |
| Paella Marinera | Exclusively seafood | Mediterranean coast |

Paella Ibicenca stands out due to local, somewhat lesser-known ingredients, and the combination of meat and seafood. Its taste is less known outside the Balearics, making it a delicacy for gourmets.

Where to try Paella Ibicenca in Malta?

If you live in Malta or plan to visit, you can try Paella Ibicenca in restaurants that offer Mediterranean cuisine. It’s worth looking for places that specialize in Balearic dishes to fully experience the flavors of this island. Encountering Paella Ibicenca will surely not disappoint and may even become the beginning of a culinary adventure with Balearic cuisine.

Paella Ibicenca is a unique dish that deserves its place on the culinary maps of the world. For those who love discovering new flavors, it’s the perfect opportunity to broaden culinary horizons and taste something truly original.