Tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette, is a tasty breakfast dish originating from Spain, well-known for its simplicity, versatility, and splendid taste. The dish primarily consists of eggs, potatoes, onions, salt, and olive oil, though many variations exist.

Some variations incorporate the use of ingredients like peppers, chorizo, and spinach, allowing for a wide range of flavors and versatility of the dish.

Origins

Spaniards claim this dish as a national treasure, with its origin dating back to the early 19th century. A general from Navarre, Teodoro Zumalacárregui, reportedly came across the Tortilla Española during the Carlist Wars when food scarcity was prevalent.

The dish’s frugal ingredient list and its nourishing properties made it a staple, and its popularity spread across Spain like wildfire.

Preparation

Turning to preparation, creating a Tortilla Española demands attention to detail and technique.

• Begin by peeling and slicing potatoes and onions thinly.
• Next, heat a generous amount of olive oil in a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet, typically between 20 to 26 cm in diameter.
• Submerge the potato and onion slices in the hot oil, frying them until tender but not browned, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
• During this time, beat the eggs in a large bowl and season them with salt. Once the potatoes and onions reach the desired tenderness, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the beaten eggs, letting them infuse their flavor.
• After removing excess oil, pour the egg, potato, and onion mixture back into the skillet. Now, the dance between the cook and the omelette begins.

Cooking

• Cook the mixture over medium heat until the edges set, then carefully lift the edges, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process until the majority of the omelette sets, yet the center remains slightly runny.
• Here comes the exciting part – flipping the omelette. Place a large, flat plate over the skillet and swiftly invert the omelette onto the plate. Slide it back into the skillet, uncooked side down, and cook it to perfection.

Variations

The variations of Tortilla Española are as diverse as the regions of Spain. Some enjoy it with a gooey center, while others prefer it fully set.

Some variations include colorful bell peppers, spicy chorizo, or fresh spinach, bringing an extra layer of flavor and texture to the traditional recipe.

Additionally, you may encounter Tortilla Española served as tapas, a snack, or a full meal, often paired with a crisp, Spanish wine or a cold beer. While the basic recipe remains consistent, there are several regional and creative variations of this iconic Spanish dish. Here are some of the notable ones:

Traditional Tortilla Española

This is the classic version, consisting of thinly sliced potatoes and onions sautéed in olive oil until tender. Mix these ingredients with beaten eggs and cook until the omelette sets but remains slightly runny in the center. Typically, people serve it as triangular slices at room temperature, which adds to its popularity as a tapa.

Tortilla de Patatas

This is a simplified version of the traditional tortilla, often prepared with just eggs and potatoes, omitting the onions. It has a milder flavor and a slightly different texture.

Tortilla de Patatas y Chorizo

To add a spicy twist, some people incorporate slices of chorizo sausage into the tortilla, giving it a smoky and savory flavor.

Tortilla de Espinacas

Adding spinach as an extra ingredient brings a healthy and flavorful twist to the tortilla.

Tortilla de Bacalao

In this version, you soak salted codfish (bacalao) and then incorporate it into the mixture. It lends a distinct salty flavor to the dish.

Tortilla de Calabacín

In this version, you can use zucchini or courgette to craft a tortilla with a mild and slightly sweet flavor.

Tortilla de Setas

Many cooks frequently incorporate mushrooms, such as wild mushrooms or button mushrooms, to create a tortilla with a rich and earthy flavor.

Tortilla de Atún

Some cooks use tuna in tortilla preparations, adding a seafood twist to the traditional recipe.

Tortilla de Sobras

This is a creative way to use leftovers. You can add various ingredients like cooked vegetables, meats, or cheese to the basic tortilla recipe, reducing food waste and creating a unique flavor.

Cookware

To round up the final stage of creating a Tortilla Española, it is essential to use the right cookware.

• A non-stick or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is a chef’s ally, ensuring that the omelette cooks evenly and flips without sticking.
• A slotted spoon is indispensable for transferring the potatoes and onions, while a large, flat plate aids in the crucial flipping process.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of Tortilla Española varies depending on its ingredients and serving size. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional components of a typical serving (about 100 grams) of a traditional Tortilla Española:

• Calories – Approximately 130-150 calories.
• Protein – About 6-8 grams of protein, primarily from eggs.
• Carbohydrates – Roughly 10-12 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from potatoes.
• Fat – Approximately 8-10 grams of fat, primarily from olive oil used for frying and eggs.
• Fiber – In terms of fiber, the dish contains very little since its main components are eggs and potatoes.
• Vitamins and Minerals – Tortilla Española provides various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin E, potassium, phosphorus, and selenium. The exact content depends on the specific ingredients used.

It’s important to remember that factors like the serving size, the quantity of oil used for frying, and the inclusion of extra ingredients (such as onions or chorizo) can greatly influence the nutritional content. If you’re looking for a healthier version of Tortilla Española, you can reduce the amount of oil used or incorporate more vegetables for added nutrients and fiber.

Tortilla Española is a tasty and satisfying dish, but it is relatively calorie-dense due to the frying process. It’s a good idea to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tortilla Española is a culinary emblem of Spain, offering a multitude of flavors and textures, shaped by diverse regional influences and individual creativity.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into inventive variations, mastering the techniques and using the right cookware will reward you with a dish that encapsulates the spirit of Spanish cuisine.

Please see below for more popular Spanish dishes.

Spanish Dishes