Rice with serrano ham recipe | Traditional Spain-style

⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 (based on home cooking experiences)

👨🍳 By Chef Omar Allibhoy

🕒 Prep time: 10 minutes

🍳 Cook time: 25 minutes

⏰ Total Time: 35 minutes

🥘 Servings: 4

 📊 Difficulty level: Easy

Growing up in Madrid, rice with Serrano ham was more than just a dish – it was a celebration of flavors that brought my family together. As a Spanish chef now based in London, I've witnessed how this humble recipe transforms ordinary moments into memorable gatherings. The aroma of sizzling Serrano ham mingling with perfectly cooked rice takes me back to my mother's kitchen, and today, I'm excited to share this treasured Spanish recipe rice with Serrano ham with you.

What is rice with serrano ham?

Rice with Serrano ham is a classic Spanish comfort dish that combines the nutty flavors of Spanish rice with the rich, savory notes of premium Serrano ham. Unlike paella, this dish focuses on simplicity while maintaining that characteristic Mediterranean essence that makes Spanish cuisine so special.

Ingredients

• 2 cups spanish medium-grain rice

• 200g Serrano ham, diced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 1 red pepper, diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 teaspoon Spanish paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Perfect pairings

This Spanish recipe rice with Serrano ham pairs beautifully with:

•  A glass of crisp Spanish Albariño

• Fresh green salad with citrus dressing

• Crusty Spanish bread

• Grilled vegetables on the side

Preparation

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat

2. Add diced Serrano ham and sauté until slightly crispy

3. Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent

4. Incorporate the rice, stirring to coat with oil

5. Add paprika and red pepper, stirring for 1 minute

6. Pour in hot chicken stock and bring to a simmer

7. Cover and cook for 18 minutes on low heat

8. Add frozen peas in the last 5 minutes

9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving

10. Garnish with fresh parsley

Professional chef tips

As someone who's prepared rice with Serrano ham countless times in professional kitchens and cooking classes, here are my secret tips:

1. Always use room temperature rice for better absorption

2. Save some crispy Serrano ham bits for garnishing

3. Let the rice rest covered after cooking – this step is crucial!

4. Use high-quality Serrano ham for the best flavor profile

Storage and Reheating

Store your rice with Serrano ham in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When reheating, sprinkle some water and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. The beauty of this dish is that it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to develop further.

Remember, cooking is about creating memories as much as it is about flavors. This recipe has traveled with me from Madrid to London, and now it's in your hands to create your own special moments around the table.

¡Buen provecho!