As much as I complain about ads targeting me through social media, I can’t help but follow the links to see what is being offered. So when I saw the Querida Carmen links with some kits to make your own paella at home, I got really excited. I mean, I’ve definitely made my own paella and arroz negro (more of the arroz negro really, I have loved the squid ink rice since the first time I had it in Barcelona), but wouldn’t a kit just be easier? I don’t have to source squid ink and get everything, it would just come in a handy-dandy pre-packed rice kits. Also during a pandemic anything to ease having to leave the house and find ingredients could be incredibly helpful!
I ordered two different kits: Arroz Negro (a no brainer) and Spanish Seafood Noodles. I mostly got two different kits to qualify for free shipping, but it also meant that I could try a couple different products. Each can on their site is in the ($20-$25) range so it seemed like a decent price for a meal for two as well.
The first kit I tried was the Arroz Negro. It’s really easy to make, just boil the mix, and the rice, and cook until complete. There is even some squid included with the liquid. I also decided to add some scallops I had sitting in the freezer to just bump on the seafood part of it a bit. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect when it was done.
It actually was pretty good. Definitely not as good as when I make it homemade, but it was significantly easier, and for the price, it may seem like something nice to keep around in the pantry in case I want something different (and quick) for dinner. The noodles were also really tasty, so if you’re not a fan of paella or rice dishes, it’s a pretty solid alternative.
They also have other things for purchase like regular paella or a risotto, but I’m less likely to get a pre-packaged risotto because that is something I’m actually pretty finicky about. In fact, I may have to make some risotto soon myself!
Score: 4/5 (as the price was right and the flavor is reasonable for a pre-packaged mix)
Recommendation: Arroz Negro of course!
