Spanish Omelette or Spanish Tortilla is a recipe that only needs 3 basic ingredients to deliver a dish that is worth celebrating, making dinner or lunch cannot be easier than this. These fried potatoes mixed with eggs are a very popular tapa in Spain known as Tortilla Espanola. Use this recipe instruction along with the included video tutorial to make it at home and let me know how you like it!
This Spanish omelette recipe creates a simple yet flavorful creation made from just a few key ingredients: eggs, potatoes, onions, and olive oil. Sliced potatoes and onions are sautéed in olive oil until tender, then mixed with beaten eggs and cooked until set, resulting in an omelette. Spanish omelette is often enjoyed as a tapa (appetizer) in Spain. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a popular choice for snacks, or light meals.
For main dishes check out my Mac & Cheese and for dessert Basque Cheesecake
Jump to:
- ⭐Why You'll Love This Spanish Omelette Recipe
- 🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
- 📖Variations of Spanish Omelette
- 👩🏻🍳How to Make Spanish Omelette
- 🔪Kitchen Tools Required
- ❄️How to Store, Reheat, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
- 💭Tips for Making Spanish Omelette
- ❓Frequently Asked Questions for Spanish Omelette
- 🍛More Comfort Food Recipes!
- 🎥Video
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Comments
⭐Why You'll Love This Spanish Omelette Recipe
Spanish Omelette is an ideal recipe for a delicious meal and here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe.
- Uses Basic Ingredients: All the ingredients for making a Spanish Omelette are basic pantry or fridge staples.
- Simple and Easy to Make: It is straightforward and easy to make. In a few simple steps, you will have the Spanish Omelette done.
- Comfort Food: The combination of eggs, potatoes, and sweet onions creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: The Spanish Omelette is incredibly versatile. It can be served as an appetizer, a light meal, or even as a main dish. You can enjoy it hot or cold, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Healthy Ingredients: It includes the nutritious benefits of eggs and the energy of potatoes. The olive oil used is considered the healthiest oil for cooking.
- Incredible Flavour: The slow sautéing of potatoes and onions in olive oil infuses earthy flavour to the omelette. This flavour is both delicious and comforting.
- Authentic Spanish Flavours: This recipe is so authentic, that you feel that you are in Spain and enjoy a freshly made tortilla de patatas at a local bar.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for sharing with friends and family.
- Suitable for Any Occasion: They are great for parties, picnics, holidays, brunch, lunch, dinner, etc.
If you want comfort food ideas then you should check out Loaded Potato with Shrimp and Pintxos Spanish Tapas
🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
Ingredients for this Spanish Omelette recipe are simple. Here is a list of everything you need:
- Potatoes: Waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, are the best choice for Spanish omelettes, as they hold their shape well and cook evenly to a tender yet firm texture.
- Salt: Season the mixture.
- Onion: Add a sweet and savory dimension to the omelette.
- Eggs: Provide a rich and creamy texture.
You can substitute ingredients in a Spanish Omelette recipe to work with what you have on hand.
Here are some common ingredient substitutions:
- Potatoes: you can use sweet potatoes or zucchini. Slice them thinly, cook until tender, and use them in place of the regular potatoes.
- Onions: Red onions, shallots, or leeks can be used instead of regular onions for a different flavour.
- Vegetables: You can add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
📖Variations of Spanish Omelette
Creating variations of the classic Spanish Omelette, also known as Tortilla Española, allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Here are some ideas to make variations of the Spanish Omelette:
- Add Spiced: Use chili pepper flakes while cooking to imbue heat into the dish.
- Add Smoke Paprika: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on the beaten eggs to enhance the smoky flavour.
- Add Bell Pepper: Incorporate bell peppers for a burst of vibrant colors and nutrients to your Spanish Omelette.
- Add Vegetable: For vibrant colors and nutrients, add bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, mushroom, spinach and peas.
- Add Chorizo: Integrate slices of flavourful Spanish chorizo for a savory and robust flavour that pairs perfectly with potatoes and eggs.
- Add Cheese: For a gooey and indulgent omelette with a delightful cheese pull, add shredded cheese, such as Manchego or cheddar.
- Add Sweet Potato: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious twist on the classic omelette.
- Add Squash or Zucchini: Swap out some potatoes with thinly sliced or grated squash or zucchini for a light variation.
- Green Omelette: Mix in chopped spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for a healthier and more vibrant omelette.
- Add Mushroom: Elevate your Spanish Omelette with the addition of sauteed mushrooms, which will add an earthy and deep flavour.
- Add Spinach and Feta Cheese: For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, combine sauteed spinach and crumbled feta cheese in your Spanish Omelette.
- Add Tuna: Incorporate tuna to create a protein omelette.
- Add Herb: Infuse your Spanish Omelette with the vibrant flavours and refreshing aroma of fresh herbs such as parsley, coriander, chives or basil.
Get creative and make a Spanish Omelette variation by adding and experimenting with different flavours and ingredients, whatever you like. Get it your own twist!
👩🏻🍳How to Make Spanish Omelette
This step by step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
1: Peel rinse and cut the potatoes into 1 cm slices.
2: Place the potatoes into a large bowl, then sprinkle with salt and mix well to combine.
3: Pour 1 litre of vegetable oil into a large frying pan and heat over medium-low heat.
4: When the oil is hot, add the potatoes.
5: Cut the onion into small pieces and add to the frying pan and mix well with a spatula.
6: Turn the heat down to low and cook for around 25 minutes or until the potatoes and onion are turning golden.
7: Remove the potatoes and onion from the oil, and place in a strainer over a bowl for around 5 minutes, so the extra oil is drained into the bowl.
8: Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl, season with some salt, then whisk the eggs with a fork.
9: Add the potatoes and onions to the egg mixture and stir well.
10: Let the egg mixture sit for about 10 minutes.
11: Place a frying pan over low-medium heat and add oil. When the oil is hot, pour in the egg mixture, and cook for around 7 minutes, with a spatula loosen the sides of the tortilla.
12: Place a large plate over the pan, flip quickly, and then slide the tortilla back into the pan to cook the other side and cook for another 5 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
13: Place another large plate over the tortilla and flip quickly.
14: Cut the tortilla into 4 wedges and serve hot.
🔪Kitchen Tools Required
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store!
Here is a list of kitchen utensils for making this Spanish Omelette.
- Small bowl.
- Big bowl.
- Silicone spatula.
- Wooden board.
- Strainer
- Small pan.
- Whisk.
- Knife.
❄️How to Store, Reheat, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
It is best to eat the Spanish Omelette on the same day of cooking, but if you have leftovers that you want to store then here are some tips.
Storing: Allow the Spanish Omelette to cool to room temperature, then slice it into portions or wedges and place the portions in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminium foil.
Store the container or wrapped portions in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, label the container with the date and any other necessary information, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Defrosting: Transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the omelette's texture.
Reheating: Once the omelette is thawed, you can reheat it in a few ways:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C). Place the omelette on an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until it's thoroughly warmed.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of olive oil. Place the omelette in the skillet and heat, covered, flipping it occasionally until it's heated through.
- Microwave: If you're in a hurry, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, checking and flipping it each time until it's heated to your liking.
Serving: Serving a Spanish Omelette or Tortilla de Patatas is a culinary journey that transports you to the heart of Spain, where the rich flavours of this classic dish come alive.
Here are some serving suggestions to take your Spanish Omelette to the next level:
- Tapas Style: To enjoy a traditional Spanish tapas experience, cut the omelette into bite-sized pieces and serve it with other Spanish appetizers such as olive, cheese and cured meats.
- Family Dinner: For a delicious and nutritious family dinner, serve the omelette as a side dish with roasted vegetables, a green salad and crusty garlic bread.
- Delicious Spanish Meal: For a truly Spanish culinary experience, include the omelette in a spread of other Spanish dishes, such as paella, gazpacho and a variety of Spanish cheeses and charcuterie.
- Party Platter: To create a stunning and flavourful centerpiece for your social gathering or house party, serve the omelette on a platter.
- Picnic Treat: For a delightful outdoor meal or picnic, pack slices of the omelette in a portable container for a picnic, accompanied by crusty bread, cherry tomatoes and a refreshing beverage.
- Brunch Dish: Create a weekend brunch that is both delicious and nutritious with the omelette, freshly baked bread, a light salad and some fresh fruit.
By following this serving suggestion and presentation tips, you can transform your Spanish Omelette experience to a new level, creating an inviting and enjoyable dining atmosphere that celebrates the rich flavours and cultural heritage of this beloved Spanish dish.
💭Tips for Making Spanish Omelette
Here are some tips to help you make the best Spanish Omelette:
Use Good Quality Ingredients: Egg and potatoes should be fresh and the olive oil should be extra virgin olive oil.
Slice the Potatoes Thinly and Evenly: This will help them cook through without becoming mushy or undercooked.
Cook Over Low-Medium Heat: Gently fry the potatoes and onions over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown. This gives the omelette its earthy flavour.
Drain the Potatoes and Onions: Before adding the potatoes and onions to the egg mixture, drain them well to remove any excess oil.
Egg Mixture: Beat the eggs separately together with a little salt until light and fluffy, then gently fold in the potatoes and onions until just combined.
Use a Good Quality Non-Stick Pan: Use a non-stick pan to prevent the omelette from sticking and to make it easier to flip the omelette.
Cook the Omelette Over Medium Heat: This will help to prevent it from burning on the outside and being raw on the inside.
Creamy Interior: To get a creamy interior it is important to not overcook. As the omelette cools down the center will continue to set.
Flipping Technique: To flip the omelette without breaking or sticking it to the pan, use a large plate that is larger than the omelette pan. This will help to ensure that the omelette cooks evenly on both sides.
Resting Time: Let the omelette rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, so it will be easier to cut and will hold its shape.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and appealing Spanish Omelette that's sure you and your family will love!
❓Frequently Asked Questions for Spanish Omelette
Here are some frequently asked questions about making homemade Spanish Omelette:
The Spanish Omelette, a traditional dish made with eggs, potatoes and onions, is a popular tapas or main course in Spanish cuisine.
Yes. Spanish Omelette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for later. It can be served cold or reheated before serving, making it a convenient and delicious meal option.
Yes, you can add various vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, etc.
Starchy potatoes like Russet are commonly used for Spanish Omelettes because they hold their shape well when fried in oil.
While it's not mandatory, a non-stick pan is recommended for making the Spanish Omelette.
Spanish Omelettes can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your personal preference. Some people like to eat the omelette warm, while others prefer the omelette at room temperature or even chilled.
🍛More Comfort Food Recipes!
Here are more of my favourite comfort food recipes! Try these:
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🎥Video
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this amazing Spanish Omelette or Spanish Tortilla!
📖 Recipe
Spanish omelette
Ingredients
- 700 g potatoes
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 onion
- 6 eggs
- ½ tablespoon salt
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water.
- Cut them into 1 cm slices.
- Place the potatoes into a large bowl, then sprinkle with salt and mix well to combine.
- Pour 1 liter of vegetable oil into a large frying pan and heat over medium-low heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the potatoes.
- Cut the onion into small pieces and add to the frying pan and mix well with a spatula.
- Turn the heat down to low and cook for around 25 minutes or until the potatoes and onion are turning golden.
- Remove the potatoes and onion from the oil, and place in a strainer over a bowl for around 5 minutes, so the extra oil is drained into the bowl.
- While the potatoes and onion are cooking, crack the eggs into a mixing bowl, season with some salt, then whisk the eggs with a fork.
- Add the potatoes and onions to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Let the egg mixture sit for about 10 minutes.
- Place a frying pan over low-medium heat and add oil. When the oil is hot, pour in the egg mixture, and cook for around 7 minutes, with a spatula loosen the sides of the tortilla.
- Place a large plate over the pan, flip quickly, and then slide the tortilla back into the pan to cook the other side and cook for another 5 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Place another large plate over the tortilla and flip quickly.
- Cut the tortilla into 4 wedges and serve hot.
Notes
- You can serve the tortilla cold as well.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
John says
I was wondering what to make for dinner today, now I know what to do thanks