Ep 12. Pure Paella

In the twelfth episode of Season 1 of "Spain...On the Road Again," titled "Pure Paella," our adventurous travel companions continue their captivating journey across the beautiful Spanish countryside. Hosted by renowned chef Mario Batali, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, author Mark Bittman, and Spanish actress Claudia Bassols, this travel and culinary series takes us on a delightful exploration of the country's diverse culture and culinary treasures.

As the episode begins, our hosts find themselves in the stunning city of Valencia, famous for its vibrant history and as the birthplace of the beloved dish—paella. Mario, Gwyneth, Mark, and Claudia are determined to uncover the secrets behind this iconic Spanish delicacy and indulge in its traditional flavors.

The team kicks off their adventure by visiting Albufera, a picturesque natural park bursting with lush landscapes and shimmering waterways. Here, they meet with a local fisherman who shares his expertise on the key ingredient for an authentic Valencia paella—the coveted bomba rice. With its ability to absorb flavors without breaking apart, bomba rice is essential for creating the perfect paella. Our hosts eagerly learn the intricacies of rice cultivation and the importance of sustainable fishing practices in this region.

Next, the group visits one of Spain's oldest and most respected rice mills, where they witness the age-old process of turning raw rice into the finest grains ready for the paella pot. From sorting to polishing, the hosts gain a profound appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in producing high-quality rice. Mario, ever the culinary maestro, enthusiastically absorbs this knowledge, imagining the potential culinary masterpieces he can create.

With their freshly harvested rice in hand, the crew ventures into the heart of Valencia to meet with a local family passionate about preserving the art of paella-making. Joined by the family matriarch, they gather the essential ingredients: succulent meat, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant saffron, the golden touch that infuses the paella with its distinctive flavor and color. Our hosts then join in the culinary process, carefully chopping, sautéing, and layering each ingredient into the massive paella pan. Working together, they perfect the technique of achieving the ideal socarrat—a crispy, caramelized base that adds depth and complexity to the dish. As the enticing aroma fills the air, our mouths water in anticipation of the upcoming feast.

The team's determination to uncover the variations of paella throughout Spain leads them to El Racó de La Paella, a renowned restaurant where the chef unveils his signature twist on the classic dish. Here, they are treated to a gastronomic adventure, sampling regional variations of paella that feature diverse ingredients such as rabbit, snails, and artichokes. Our hosts savor every decadent bite, relishing the distinctive flavors that reflect the rich culinary tapestry of Spain.

No exploration of Valencia's food scene would be complete without indulging in the city's vibrant tapas culture. Our hosts venture through the bustling streets, hopping from one tapas bar to another, immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere and indulging in an array of delectable small plates. They experience the pure joy of savoring traditional tapas like patatas bravas, croquetas, and pulpo a la gallega, accompanied by the finest Spanish wines and lively conversation.

As the episode draws to a close, our hosts bid farewell to Valencia, their hearts full of fond memories and taste buds ignited by the tantalizing flavors of paella. Their journey continues, promising more exciting destinations, culinary delights, and profound cultural experiences that will continue to captivate audiences across the globe.

Join Mario, Gwyneth, Mark, and Claudia as they navigate the enchanting landscapes of Spain, uncover hidden treasures, and savor the finest flavors the country has to offer on an unforgettable road trip in "Spain...On the Road Again."