Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his 41st birthday with a classic of Spanish cuisine: the Portuguese footballer shared on social media an image of him appearing at the table with a paella, in a version with chicken, a choice that quickly caught the attention of fans and rekindled interest in one of Spain’s most emblematic dishes. The gesture, simple and far from big productions, showed a more relaxed side of the celebration and brought paella to the center of the conversation.
According to Notícias ao Minuto, the image released by the Portuguese star reveals a chicken paella, one of the most popular and accessible variations of the Valencian dish.
Although there are countless interpretations of the recipe, this version moves away from the more elaborate combinations with seafood and opts for a more rustic and comforting profile.
Paella originates from the Valencia region and was born as a country dish, prepared with the ingredients available at the time.
Rice, meat, vegetables and spices were cooked in a single wide frying pan, designed for sharing. Over time, the recipe spread across the country and the world, giving rise to quick, modern versions and also interpretations closer to tradition.
A quick version for everyday life
For those who want to recreate the spirit of the dish at home, but without great complexity, there is an express version that adapts well to more hurried routines.
According to Notícias ao Minuto, this type of approach has gained popularity as it allows you to prepare something inspired by paella in just a few minutes.
In this version, chicken cut into pieces, seasonings to taste, already cooked rice and frozen vegetables are used. The vegetables are sautéed first, the chicken is well cooked separately and, at the end, everything comes together in the pan to enhance the flavors for a few minutes. It doesn’t follow the traditional method, but it results in a practical and balanced meal.
Paella made in the microwave
Another alternative is to use the microwave, a solution that has been publicized by several international culinary publications.
According to the same source, this version allows you to reduce cooking times without completely giving up the characteristic aromas of the dish.
The preparation begins with olive oil, onion and garlic, followed by the addition of rice suitable for paella, chicken strips, chorizo, chicken broth and spices such as paprika and saffron.
Cooking is done in phases, with short breaks to stir, and ends with the introduction of peas and a touch of lemon. The result is a paella adapted to modern methods, designed for those looking for speed.
The most traditional mixed version
For those who prefer to respect the classic logic of the recipe, mixed paella continues to be one of the most complete options. This version combines meat and seafood, adding chicken, pork belly, sausage, squid, shrimp, clams and mussels, as well as peppers, tomatoes, garlic and Bomba rice.
As explained by , the secret is in the order of the steps. The meats are first browned and reserved. Then prepare the stew with onion, peppers, garlic and tomatoes, refreshed with white wine.
Only then do the raw rice and hot broth come in, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Seafood is added near the end, ensuring texture and freshness.
More than a rigid recipe, paella remains a dish that can be adapted and shared. Cristiano Ronaldo’s choice to celebrate his birthday shows precisely that: a simple meal, linked to tradition, but adjusted to personal taste.
At home, whether in a quick or more elaborate version, the essential remains the same: gathering ingredients, time and the desire to celebrate at the table.
Also read:
