The main ingredient in a traditional paella is rice. This iconic Spanish dish, particularly associated with the Valencia region, typically uses a short-grain variety called "bomba" or "arroz de Valencia," which absorbs liquid well while maintaining its form. Paella can incorporate various ingredients, including seafood, chicken, rabbit, vegetables, and spices such as saffron, which provides its characteristic flavor and yellow color. The dish is traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan over an open flame, with an emphasis on creating a flavorful socarrat, or crispy bottom layer of rice.