Open Fire Paella - do I need to fry rice?
Do you think you get as good a result


There are lots of different techniques for preparing rice, and all are equally valid. They do lead to different results, but it is up to you do decide which one you prefer. There is not one "right" way we can recommend over the other. 

does frying the rice like this make much difference


Yes, there is a noticeable difference. Rice pre-fried in fat has a different texture. It is less fluffy, and can be even slightly slimy if cooked in too much water. It does not dry out as quickly as rice cooked in watery liquid only. It also has a slightly different taste, especially if you use a non-neutral oil. But this difference in aroma may be too subtle to notice if your paella is heavily seasoned, it is most pronounced when the rice is cooked on its own and served as a side.