Spanish Potato Omelet
This classic Spanish Potato Omelet, also known as Tortilla Española, is a beloved dish that perfectly blends the flavors of tender potatoes, sweet onions, and savory ham, all bound together by fluffy, eggy goodness. The combination of ingredients creates a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Serve it warm alongside a stack of freshly warmed tortillas for a complete experience that brings a taste of Spain to your table. Simple yet deeply flavorful, this omelet is a wonderful way to start any day!
4-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
2 large (3 cups) (peeled and finely chopped)
Onion
1 medium (finely chopped)
Diced cooked ham
1 cup
Salt
3/4 teaspoon
Crushed dried chile pequins
1/4 teaspoon
Cooking oil
2 tablespoons
Eggs
6 (beaten)
Milk
1/3 cup
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and chopped potatoes, finely chopped onion, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, crushed chilies, and diced ham. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2
In a 10-inch oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the potato and ham mixture to the skillet.
3
Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper until well combined.
5
Pour the egg mixture over the cooked potatoes and ham in the skillet, making sure it's spread evenly across the surface.
6
Reduce the heat to low and allow it to cook for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the eggs are nearly set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7
Once the eggs have set on the bottom, uncover the skillet and place it under the broiler about 3 to 4 inches from the heat. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the top is set and lightly golden.
8
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature, alongside warm tortillas if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Spanish Potato Omelet?
Also known as Tortilla Española, it is a traditional dish made from tender potatoes, onions, and ham bound together with fluffy eggs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield between 4 and 6 servings.
What type of potatoes are used in the omelet?
The recipe calls for 2 large potatoes, which should equal about 3 cups when peeled and finely chopped.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, for the best texture, the potatoes should be peeled before being finely chopped.
How many eggs are required for this dish?
You will need 6 large eggs, which should be beaten before being mixed with the other ingredients.
Is there milk in the Spanish Potato Omelet?
Yes, 1/3 cup of milk is whisked with the eggs to help create a fluffy texture.
What meat is included in this version of the tortilla?
This recipe includes 1 cup of diced cooked ham for a savory flavor profile.
How should the onion be prepared?
One medium onion should be finely chopped and mixed with the potato and ham mixture.
What provides the heat in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of crushed dried chile pequins for a subtle kick.
What size skillet is best for this omelet?
A 10-inch oven-safe skillet is recommended for even cooking and for the final broiling step.
Why does the skillet need to be oven-safe?
The skillet must be oven-safe because the top of the omelet is finished under the broiler.
How much oil do I need to cook the potatoes?
You will need 2 tablespoons of cooking oil to heat in the skillet before adding the potato mixture.
How long do the potatoes need to cook on the stove?
The potato and ham mixture should cook covered for approximately 15 minutes over medium heat.
Should I stir the potatoes while they cook?
Yes, you should stir them occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure they cook evenly.
How do I know when the potatoes are ready?
The potatoes are ready when they are tender and cooked all the way through.
When do I add the egg and milk mixture?
Pour the egg mixture over the skillet contents after the potatoes and ham have finished their 15-minute cook time.
What heat setting is used for the eggs?
The heat should be reduced to low once the egg mixture is poured into the skillet.
How long do the eggs cook on the stovetop?
They should cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are nearly set but still slightly jiggly in the middle.
How do I finish the top of the omelet?
Place the skillet under the broiler, about 3 to 4 inches from the heat, for 2 to 3 minutes.
What color should the omelet be after broiling?
The top should be set and a light golden brown color.
Should the omelet be served immediately?
It is best to let it cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to make slicing easier.
Can I serve this at room temperature?
Yes, Spanish potato omelets are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It is traditionally served with a stack of freshly warmed tortillas.
How much salt is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt in total: 3/4 teaspoon for the potatoes and 1/2 teaspoon for the eggs.
Is there any black pepper in this recipe?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper is whisked into the egg and milk mixture.
What categories of food does this dish fall under?
It is categorized as a breakfast, brunch, or light dinner dish and is considered a comfort food.
How do I slice the omelet for serving?
The omelet is usually sliced into wedges, similar to a pie or pizza.
Can I prepare the potato mixture in advance?
You can chop the potatoes and onions ahead of time, but it is best to mix and cook them fresh to avoid browning.
Is this dish difficult to make?
No, it is described as a simple recipe that is deeply flavorful and easy to prepare.
What is the key to an even omelet?
Ensuring the potato and ham mixture is evenly distributed in the bowl and again in the skillet before adding eggs is key.