Thus the season begins. I review my ingredients for Paella and notice that the saffron stores are low. Currently, friend and
Paella god "Markito" is visiting family in Barcelona and the arrival of saffron is imminent. He is to return in a matter of days which puts me at ease, somewhat.
Hibernate for the winter - then comes the sun. It's the change of season that spins my way of thinking. Spring weather by nature is inclement; cold days followed by brilliant sunshine. Combine the weekend with clear skies and the back-garden will see much activity. Big salads and fresh breads and chunks of cheese to sate the guests 'til the Paella has cooked and been given ten minutes of repose. In the resting, all flavors blend and the rice mellows while sucking up olive oil, saffron and seafood.
Pictured above is a recent Paella made in the home of my good friend Peter. The indoor variety is good but lacks the savoriness of a Paella exposed to smoke. Yes, I long for a wood-fire in the open air to undertake the next Paella but I shall forever remember the words spoken to me by an old man in the south of Spain; "The best Paella, is the one you have in front of you!" I agree wholeheartedly but cooking out of doors and over fire gives flavor to everything. Most notably, it gives flavor to life.
And you said you'd be happy with a Sloppy Joe. Not on your life, Papito! My brother Joe Huerta is a very good and varied cook, one that will investigate and go deep into the foods of a country, cook a complete meal and share with family and friends. He's a perfect example of why it's always mouthwatering to surround yourself with the kitchen active. It's a situation that adds the adjective "succulent" to surprise!
I spent a long weekend recently with the Antista family (cousin, aunt & uncle) in Atlanta. I made paella while primo Tom shot the process with video and stills. Some of the images are stupendous. Salad and conversation added, our meal was sublime.
All my brothers are wonderful cooks, each with his own style and focus. But it's Joe and I who have taken to the Paella. We have years of practice and a good sense of what pleases guests. The fotos shared are my most recent effort.
