Paella is a delicious Latin meal that originated in Spain. It is a rice dish that is cooked in a special pan, with seafood, meat, chicken and various vegetables added in. Seafood paella is particularly succulent and popular. This dish is cooked in paella pans, which are specifically designed to cook the rice and various ingredients so that they have the best taste possible.
Identification
Paella pans are circular in shape and shallow. They have lips that are at slight angles and the bottoms are generally flat, though slightly convex at the center.
Lids
Paella pans do not come with lids. Paella should be cooked uncovered and on an open flame for best results.
Size
Paella pans come in a number of sizes. These range from 10 to 60 inches in diameter, with larger ones meant to feed large parties.
Materials
Paella pans are made from various materials, usually cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel or an enameled combination of steels.
Heating
Paella pans work best on gas or charcoal grills or stove tops. Modern, flat stove tops may not work as well because the slightly convex pan may not allow for an even transfer of heat.