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Tortilla Española Spanish Potato Omelette Recipe

Tortilla Española Spanish Potato Omelette Recipe - Easy Family Meal

Have you ever bitten into an omelette so fluffy and packed with flavor that it made you rethink breakfast forever? That’s exactly what Tortilla Española brings to the table. 
Traditionally served in tapas bars across Spain, this dish is more than just food; it’s a delightful experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or dinner, Tortilla Española captivates your taste buds and warms your heart.
My journey with this recipe began in a sunlit café in Madrid, where I savored my first taste. The tenderness of the potatoes mingled perfectly with the creaminess of the eggs. It was love at first bite. I knew I had to replicate this magic in my kitchen. After many attempts, tweaks, and, yes, a few kitchen disasters, I landed on the perfect blend of ingredients and techniques.
So, buckle up! I’m going to guide you through the wonderful world of Tortilla Española—the Spanish potato omelette.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 8 large pasture-raised eggs
  • 1 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes 700 g
  • 3/4 pound sweet yellow onions, finely sliced 350 g
  • 2 cups high-quality extra-virgin olive oil 475 ml
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
  1. Start by peeling and thinly slicing the Yukon Gold potatoes. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. This size helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming too mushy. Place the slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prep the onions.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely sliced onions. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside. This step creates a beautiful sweet base for the omelette.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
  1. Using the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and allow it to heat again. Drain the potatoes and add them to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt. Cook the potatoes on medium heat, stirring gently every few minutes. The goal is to cook them until they’re tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
  1. Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain the excess oil. Mix the potatoes with the onions in a large bowl. Cover this mixture and let it cool slightly. This step allows the flavors to marry and keeps the texture just right.
Step 5: Whip the Eggs
  1. In a separate bowl, crack all the eggs and whisk them until combined. Add a pinch of salt and the smoked paprika.
Step 6: Combine Egg Mixture with Potatoes
  1. Pour the egg mixture over the cooled potatoes and onions. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the eggs coat all the potatoes well.
Step 7: Cook the Tortilla
  1. Wipe the skillet clean and add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat over medium-low. When the oil is hot, pour in the potato and egg mixture. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the bottom is set and lightly browned.
Step 8: Flip the Tortilla
  1. Here comes the fun part! To flip the tortilla, place a large plate over the skillet. Carefully invert the tortilla onto the plate. Then, slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side for another 5 minutes.
Step 9: Serve
  1. Once both sides are golden and cooked through, transfer the tortilla to a serving plate. Let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, garnished with parsley.

Notes

Here are some tips to enhance your Tortilla Española experience:
  • Choose the Right Pan: A non-stick skillet works wonders for an easy flip and prevents sticking.
  • Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: Cooking the potatoes in batches can help achieve that perfect texture.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
  • Let it Rest: Allowing the tortilla to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors develop.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for make-ahead meals.