Potato omelette (Spanish omelette with potatoes)

Potato Tortilla – A Spanish Delight at Home

What could be more comforting than a perfect potato tortilla? This classic dish, also known as Spanish omelette with potatoes, is an excellent choice for a hearty breakfast or a light dinner. In this recipe, we will explore step by step how to achieve a delicious, fluffy, and flavorful tortilla. From essential ingredients to cooking techniques, I will guide you through this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 medium potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 large onion
- 3-4 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

Helpful tips for ingredients:

- Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet. They have a better texture for frying and will turn into a creamy omelette.
- Eggs: Make sure the eggs are fresh. They are the foundation of the recipe, and their quality will influence the final taste.
- Onion: You can use white or yellow onion; each brings a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add red onion.
- Greens: Parsley adds a note of freshness, but you can experiment with other herbs like dill or cilantro, depending on your preferences.

A brief history of the recipe:

Potato tortilla is a symbol of Spanish cuisine, appreciated not only in Spain but around the world. This simple recipe gained popularity in the 19th century, associated with family meals and gatherings. Over time, each region developed its own variant, adding local ingredients. However, the basic recipe remains unchanged – potatoes, eggs, and onion.

Step by step – Preparing Potato Tortilla:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 3-4 mm. This will ensure even cooking.
- Slice the onion thinly. You can soften it in a pan with a little oil before adding it to the tortilla to enhance its sweetness.

2. Frying the potatoes:
- In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over low heat.
- Add the sliced potatoes and fry them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and soft, about 15-20 minutes. This method prevents over-frying and gives them a creamy texture.

3. Draining excess oil:
- Once the potatoes are ready, remove them with a spatula and place them on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

4. Preparing the egg mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with salt and pepper, then add the fried potatoes and sautéed onion. Gently mix to incorporate the potatoes into the eggs without crushing them.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley and mix lightly.

5. Cooking the tortilla:
- In the same skillet, add a little fresh oil and heat it over medium heat. Pour the egg and potato mixture into the skillet.
- Let the tortilla cook for 5-7 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the center starts to set. You can gently shake the skillet to prevent sticking.

6. Flipping the tortilla:
- Use a large plate to flip the tortilla. Place the plate over the skillet and carefully turn it over. Put the tortilla back in the skillet to cook the other side for about 5-7 minutes.
- Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the tortilla is ready.

7. Serving:
- Once the tortilla is well cooked, transfer it to a flat plate and let it cool slightly. It can be served warm or cold, cut into triangular slices. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce to enhance its flavors.

Serving suggestions:

Potato tortilla is delicious both warm and at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or parties. You can serve it alongside a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade for a relaxing lunch. It is also an excellent option for tapas, alongside olives and chorizo.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other ingredients?
- Absolutely! You can add ingredients like red or green peppers, mushrooms, or even cheese for a different flavor dimension.

2. How can I store potato tortilla?
- The tortilla keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of this recipe?
- Potato tortilla is a good source of carbohydrates from potatoes and protein from eggs. It can be an excellent choice for a hearty breakfast or a light meal.

Calories:

One serving of potato tortilla (about 1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the serving size. It is a satisfying meal but not overly caloric, perfect for starting your day.

Possible variations:

- Vegetable tortilla: Add zucchini or spinach for a healthier version.
- Cheese tortilla: Incorporate feta or cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor.
- Spicy tortilla: Add chili peppers for a kick.

In conclusion, potato tortilla is a versatile dish that is easy to make and will transport you straight to the heart of Spanish cuisine. With every bite, you will feel the perfect balance between potatoes, eggs, and onion, and making it will become a true pleasure. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and flavors to make this recipe truly your own! Enjoy!