Arroz con gambas y calamar
Discover this authentic Spanish Arroz con gambas y calamar recipe — a quick and easy dish that's moderately challenging but rewarding. Made with raw king prawns, olive oil, onion and 7 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 3 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this spanish classic is sure to impress.
15
Prep Time (min)
5
Cook Time (min)
4
servings
280
Calories/serving
Medium
Difficulty

Ingredients
- 24 Raw King Prawns
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 small Onion
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 pinch Saffron
- 450 g Paella Rice
- 2 teaspoons Tomato Puree
- 200 ml White Wine
- 650 ml Seafood stock
- 3 Medium Squid
Instructions
3 steps · ~38 minutes total
Step 1
Peel and devein most of the prawns (a fishmonger should be able to do this for you), keeping a few whole for decoration, if you like. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or shallow flameproof casserole over a medium-low heat and fry the onion for 5 mins until softened. Add the bay leaf, saffron, rice and tomato purée, and cook for 1-2 mins more, stirring.
8 minutesTest the oil temperature with a small piece of food — it should sizzle immediately.Step 2
Pour in the wine and bubble for 1-2 mins, then pour in the seafood stock and 150ml water. Cook for 5 mins, then add the squid, season well and stir to combine. Bring to the boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 12 mins more, adding a little more water if the mixture starts to look dry.
15 minutesUse a large pot to prevent boiling over. Add salt to the water for extra flavor.Step 3
Uncover the pan and stir through the peeled prawns, then arrange any whole prawns on top of the rice mixture. Cover again and simmer for a further 5-6 mins until the prawns are pink and cooked through. Leave to stand for a couple of minutes before serving from the pan.
15 minutesKeep the heat low — gentle bubbles, not a rolling boil.
💡 Tips & Tricks
🔄 Variations
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your spanish meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Arroz con gambas y calamar is a beloved dish from Spanish cuisine, originating in Spain. With a total preparation time of about 20 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.
Spanish cuisine celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients cooked with simplicity and flair. From tapas culture to regional specialties, Spain's food traditions are deeply rooted in community and celebration.
This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
For Arroz con gambas y calamar, it is best to use short-grain rice such as Bomba or Arborio, as they absorb flavors well and provide the desired texture.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.




