One of the most frequently asked questions we receive on El Paeller's Instagram page is: what's the difference between glass and canned broths? Although all our recipes are wood-fired and made with 100% natural ingredients, each format has its own unique characteristics. We'll explain them here, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and the flavor you're looking for.
Vegan broth: same recipe, different packaging
In this case, the recipe is exactly the same In both formats. Whether canned or glass , you'll find a balanced combination of vegetables such as onion, white cabbage, turnip, leek, and carrot. All accompanied by extra virgin olive oil and infused rosemary, which enhance the flavor and bring it closer to Mediterranean tradition.
And, of course, the characteristic touch of Rafa Margós' salmorreta . This blend of crushed tomatoes, dried garlic, and sweet paprika adds depth, color, and an unmistakable character to this vegetable broth.
The choice between glass or can will depend on your preferred format: Are you looking for something easy to store? A can is your ally. Do you prefer to reuse or recycle the container easily? Then glass is ideal for you.
Seafood broth: looking for balance or intensity?
In this case there is a change in the recipe depending on the packaging:
- Crystal broth is a concentrated and potent seafood fumet . It contains shellfish such as mantis shrimp, crab, and shrimp heads, which translates into a deep, direct flavor.
- Canned broth It's a seafood and whitebait recipe with a vegetable mix. The onion, leek, and carrot give the broth a balanced flavor and soften the richness of the seafood. It's perfect for those looking for a flavorful but not overly intense base.
Our recommendation? If you're looking for a seafood paella with a more delicate flavor, opt for canned. If you prefer a more intense result, glass stock will be your best option. Although, as always, everything will depend on what you're looking for with your recipe.
Chicken broth: chicken, duck, or both?
The chicken broth we traditionally make in our workshop is a very versatile broth. It will be a great addition to any recipe containing animal protein.
However, there are also notable differences in the format here:
- Chicken broth in a glass jar is a classic. Cooked over a wood fire with chicken and hen, it brings a smooth, clean, and balanced flavor to your recipes.
- Canned chicken broth is what we at El Paeller call gourmet broth , because in addition to chicken, it also includes a touch of duck , which makes it more flavorful and rounded. It's ideal for more sophisticated recipes like mushroom rice or creamy rice.
So which one do I choose?
The choice between glass and can depends, on the one hand, on the intensity of flavor you want in your dish, and on the other hand, on the format that is most practical for you.
Cans are generally easier to store and transport, while glass bottles are ideal for easy reuse and recycling.
What you need to be clear about is that all our broths are cooked over a wood fire, without additives, colorings, or preservatives, and with the same respect for tradition. The only difference is the experience you're looking for in each dish. Tell us what dish you'd like to make, and we'll advise you on the most suitable format!
