Classic Spanish Potato and Onion Omelette (Tortilla Española)

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Beat the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly with a fork or whisk. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Combine potatoes and eggs: Add the drained potatoes and onions to the beaten eggs and mix gently to combine. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the potatoes to absorb some of the egg mixture and adds flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Tortilla Española

1. Heat a non-stick skillet: In the same frying pan or a smaller non-stick skillet, add a little of the reserved olive oil and heat it over medium heat. You don’t need a lot of oil—just enough to coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Cook the tortilla: Pour the potato, onion, and egg mixture into the heated skillet. Spread the mixture evenly across the pan and cook over low-medium heat. Use a spatula to gently lift the edges of the tortilla and let any uncooked egg mixture flow to the sides.
3. Flip the tortilla: After about 8-10 minutes, when the edges of the tortilla are set but the center is still slightly runny, it’s time to flip the tortilla. To do this, place a large flat plate or lid over the pan, and carefully invert the tortilla onto the plate. Then, slide the tortilla back into the skillet to cook the other side. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tortilla is fully set and golden brown on both sides.
4. Check for doneness: The tortilla should be firm to the touch, with a slight jiggle in the center. If you like your tortilla a bit more custardy, remove it from the heat a little earlier, but if you prefer it more firm, let it cook a little longer.

Step 5: Let the Tortilla Rest

1. Cool and serve: Once the tortilla is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Tortilla Española is typically served at room temperature, but it’s also delicious when eaten warm.
2. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a little extra sea salt before serving.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Slice the tortilla into wedges or small squares and serve it as a main dish, side dish, or tapa. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a glass of chilled Spanish wine.

Why Tortilla Española is So Special

• Simple, yet Sophisticated: The magic of Tortilla Española lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with Spanish character. It showcases the versatility of humble potatoes and eggs, turning them into something extraordinary.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: While it’s a basic omelette at its core, the long, slow cooking of the potatoes and onions creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that takes this dish to another level. It’s comforting in the same way a bowl of soup or a hearty stew might be, but with a unique Spanish flair.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as part of a tapas spread, Tortilla Española is an incredibly versatile dish. It can be eaten warm, at room temperature, or even cold, making it perfect for meal prep or packed lunches. It’s just as delicious the next day, too!
• A Slice of Spanish Tradition: Tortilla Española is more than just food—it’s a part of Spain’s rich culinary history. From the bustling markets of Madrid to the seaside tapas bars of Barcelona, this dish is a beloved classic, representing the heart and soul of Spanish cooking. It’s a great way to bring a little bit of Spain to your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Tortilla Española is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that combines simple ingredients to create something truly special. With its tender potatoes, sweet onions, and rich, egg-based texture, this classic Spanish omelette is a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, an easy dinner, or an impressive addition to your next gathering, Tortilla Española is sure to satisfy. Try it today and experience the authentic flavors of Spain with every bite!