Paella rice substitue

That's definitely one where the only effect might be a slight deterioration in flavour - which obviously hadn't happened! I regret to say that the risotto rice I used to buy in Italy had a 12 month expiry date after harvesting and, as far as I could translate it, said that if you couldn't store it properly you shouldn't be buying it! I do know that I am a sad case

Last night I fancied a baked pea and ham risotto. Thinking that I would do it properly with Arborio rice, I found the packet and got making. The result was lovely, creamy and tasty. It was only as I was throwing away the packet , that I noticed the expiry date, Nov 2015. We have survived.

I think risotto rice would be fine. If you can find Vialone Nano rice that doesn't need stirring - on second thoughts that would raise the same problems as finding paella rice wouldn't it.

Any risotto rice is fine.
In an Italian risotto you stir slowly, letting the rice absorb the stock. In a paella you do that initially but then leave to form a bit of a crust on the bottom.
What a lovely bright meal for January!

Thank you. I was panicking, nearest shop where paella rice would be available is 25 miles away and I didn't fancy dashing there in this weather.

I have used risotto rice - it was fine.

I have used 'pudding' rice when pushed as it's a round rice, but arborio or risotto rice is ok. Your D is quite right, it needs a round grain to absorb all those lovely saffron, fishy flavours. I don't stir very much, but I use plenty of stock to start off with.

I've often used long grain with no problem.