XL Bomba Paella Rice by Peregrino – 11 lbs / 5 kilos

The ultimate paella rice. In the mountains of Murcia is a region around the town of Calasparra that grows an ancient strain of rice that matures very slowly. The mature rice is exceedingly lacking in water, and absorbs three times its volume in broth rather than twice, as is the case with the rice that we are used to. Rice from the Calasparra region has been assigned Denominacion de Origen status in recognition of its unique characteristics and high production standards. Of the two types of classic rice grown in Calasparra, Bomba is the supreme strain. Until recently it was a variety that had all but disappeared because of the intensive care it needs to grow. Chefs, however, created a demand, and today Bomba is once more cultivated for the pleasure of discriminating food lovers. The basic difference between Bomba rice and others is that Bomba does not expand longitudinally, like other rice strains, but in width, like an accordion. It does not become pasty after cooking, as typically happens with other short grain rices (other than its sister Calasparra rice). It has a wonderful consistency and flavor. When only the best of the best will do.