The name Valencia comes from the Spanish province, home to authentic paella. This variety is short grain rice, also known as pearl rice or round rice which, when cooked, absorbs the liquid so it becomes tender, compact and moist. In contrast to long grain rice such as white rice or jasmine rice, the starch in the short grains is released with the heat making for stickier, creamy textured rice.

Mahatma® Valencia Short Grain Rice is free of MSG and contains no added preservatives, so it is an ideal product to prepare for the entire family. It’s also Gluten Free and suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets. Use it to prepare a traditional paella recipe or another Spanish-inspired classic. Whatever you choose, make sure to use our quality rice products.

The ideal ratio for cooking this rice over the stove is 1 ¾:1 meaning it requires 1 ¾ cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. However, it can also be cooked in the microwave, rice cooker or another slow cooker.

Stovetop method: Bring 1 ¾ cups of water to a boil in a 2 quart heavy saucepan. Add olive oil and salt, if desired. Stir in 1 cup rice. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until all water is absorbed.

Microwave method: In a 2 quart microwave safe dish combine water and rice. Add olive oil and salt, if desired. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 5 minutes. Reduce setting to 50% power, microwave for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. If your microwave does not have variable power settings, follow manufacturer’s directions.

As its name suggests, Valencia rice is great for using in authentic Spanish paella with seafood, vegetables, chicken or beef, make your meal with a personalized touch. If you’ve never tried making this international delicacy, make sure to follow our guide on how to cook a paella.

It can also be served as a base for rice bowls or other skillet dishes that require a more luscious compact texture. It also works well in a rich and creamy rice pudding for dessert.

Try our other variation of Mahatma® Parboiled Medium Grain Rice which is also crafted for making a delicious paella recipe.