The perfect potato omelette: learn how to make this classic of Spanish gastronomy

The potato omelette, also known as Spanish omelette or potato omelette, is one of the most emblematic dishes of Spanish cuisine. With its simplicity, versatility and delicious flavor, it has conquered palates around the world. But behind this seemingly simple dish lies a rich history and a culinary technique that deserves to be explored.

Origin and history of potato omelette

The history of the potato omelet is fascinating and shrouded in a haze of legends and theories. Although there is no definitive consensus on its origin, several theories have been proposed that offer us an interesting vision of how this emblematic dish of Spanish cuisine may have emerged.

One of the most accepted theories suggests that the potato omelette has its roots in Spain, specifically in the region of Extremadura or Navarra, during the 18th century. At that time, Spain was experiencing economic and social difficulties, and the peasant population faced the need to feed themselves with basic and economical ingredients.

It is said that the potato omelet was born as an ingenious solution to take advantage of the most common and accessible ingredients in the countryside: potatoes and eggs. These elements were combined with olive oil, another fundamental pillar of the Mediterranean diet, to create a simple but substantial dish that satisfied the hunger of farm workers.

Another interesting theory suggests that the potato omelette may have been a culinary creation of soldiers during the Spanish War of Independence in the 19th century. It is said that soldiers, who had limited access to fresh, quality food, improvised this dish using the few ingredients available on the battlefield.

Regardless of its exact origin, what is undeniable is that the potato omelette quickly became a staple of Spanish cuisine and spread throughout the country, adapting to different regions and local tastes. Over the years, it has evolved to include variations with additional ingredients such as onion, chorizo, peppers or even spinach, demonstrating its versatility and ability to adapt to individual tastes and preferences.

On March 9, in Spain, the international potato omelette day is celebrated. The origin of the festival dates back to the 15th century in Spain, commemorating the death of Saint Joan. Every March 9, devotees gathered at the Cubas de la Sagra convent, where the aforementioned saint had resided, being recognized for her healing abilities.

When lunchtime arrived, the locals gathered around Fuenlabrada and spread out their provisions to recharge their batteries. Among the most common foods for snacks on the road were tortillas and bread, from here the custom of celebrating March 9 with this food took root.

Today, the potato omelette is one of the most emblematic dishes in Spain and has become a symbol of the country's culinary identity. It is served in bars, restaurants and homes around the world, delighting diners with its comforting flavor and its connection to the rich history and Spanish gastronomic tradition.

Recipe for the perfect potato omelette: master this kitchen classic

Now that we know a little about its history, it is time to delve into preparing the perfect potato omelet. Although the basic recipe only requires a few ingredients, mastering the technique is essential to achieving a tortilla with the right texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 medium potatoes
• 1 large onion
• 6 eggs
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste

Step by step instructions

Step 1: Preparation of the ingredients:

• Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thin slices. It is important that the slices are uniform to ensure even cooking.
• Chop the onion into small pieces. The onion adds a sweet and mild flavor to the tortilla, perfectly complementing the flavor of the potatoes.

Step 2: Cooking the potatoes and onion:

• In a large frying pan, pour a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil and heat over medium heat. Olive oil is essential for the texture and authentic flavor of the tortilla.
• Once the oil is hot, add the potatoes and chopped onion. Season with salt to taste. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the potatoes cook evenly.
• It is important to cook the potatoes over low heat so that they soften without browning too much. We want them to be tender, but not crunchy.

Step 3: Preparation of the egg mixture:

• While the potatoes are cooking, beat the eggs in a large bowl and season with a little salt to taste. Beating the eggs properly will ensure a smooth and uniform texture in the omelet.

Step 4: Combination of ingredients:

• Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well to remove excess oil and add them to the bowl with the beaten eggs. Mix well to make sure all the potatoes are completely coated with egg.

Step 5: Cooking the tortilla:

• Using the same skillet used to cook the potatoes, pour in the egg and potato mixture. Evenly distribute the mixture in the pan.
• Cook over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges of the tortilla begin to set. It is important to cook the tortilla over medium-low heat so that it cooks gradually and forms a firm but soft texture inside.
• Once the edges are set, it's time to flip the tortilla. To do this, place a large plate or lid over the skillet and carefully invert the omelet onto the plate. Then, slide the tortilla back into the pan to cook the other side.

Last step: Completion, service and support:

• Cook the other side of the tortilla for another 5-7 minutes, or until completely set and lightly browned.
• Once ready, remove the tortilla from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into portions.
• Serve the tortilla warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh salad or simply enjoy it on its own as a delicious Spanish tapa.

Potato omelette is a versatile dish that can be accompanied by a variety of foods to create a complete and delicious meal. Here you have some accompaniment options that combine very well with the tortilla:

1. Fresh Bread: Nothing like a good piece of fresh bread, whether baguette, village bread or ciabatta, to accompany your potato omelette. The bread is ideal for dipping into the juicy interior of the tortilla.
2. Green Salad: A fresh and crunchy salad is the perfect complement to balance the soft texture of the tortilla. You can prepare a simple salad with lettuce, tomato, cucumber and a light olive oil and vinegar dressing.
3. Salsa Brava: If you like to add a touch of spice, salsa brava is an excellent option. This typical Spanish sauce, based on tomato, peppers and spices, provides a vibrant flavor that enhances the flavor of the tortilla.
4. Pan con Tomate: A slice of toasted bread spread with crushed tomato and a drizzle of olive oil is a classic accompaniment to potato omelette. The combination of flavors is simple but delicious.
5. Aioli: Aioli, a sauce based on garlic and olive oil, is another popular option to accompany the omelette. Its intense and creamy flavor combines very well with the softness of the tortilla.
6. Roasted Peppers: Roasted peppers, whether red, green or yellow, add a touch of sweetness and color to your food. You can serve them as a garnish next to the tortilla or even include them inside the tortilla itself for extra flavor.
7. Serrano Ham or Chorizo: Some thin pieces of grilled Serrano ham or chorizo ​​are a delicious option to accompany the tortilla. They provide a smoky and salty flavor that contrasts very well with the softness of the potatoes and eggs.
8. Olives: Olives are a classic in Spanish gastronomy and cannot be missing as an accompaniment to your omelette. You can serve them whole or sliced ​​to add a salty and Mediterranean touch to your meal.

Also, in case you want to innovate a little and try making potato omelette with different flavors, we are going to share with you some of our favorite options to add to the traditional omelette:

• Potato omelette with chorizo: Add a touch of Spanish flavor with chopped chorizo ​​to the potato and egg mixture. The chorizo ​​provides a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that complements the softness of the tortilla very well.
• Potato omelet with spinach: Add chopped fresh spinach to the egg and potato mixture for a healthier and more colorful version of the omelet. Spinach adds a touch of freshness and additional nutrients to the dish.
• Cheese Potato Omelet: Add pieces of your favorite cheese, such as Manchego, cheddar or mozzarella, to the potato and egg mixture before cooking. The melted cheese adds creaminess and an extra delicious flavor to the tortilla.
• Potato omelet with peppers: Add red, green or yellow peppers cut into strips to the potato and egg mixture for a touch of color and sweet flavor. The peppers provide a crunchy texture and juicy flavor to the tortilla.
• Potato omelette with mushrooms: Sauté various mushrooms, such as mushrooms, shiitake or boletus, and add them to the potato and egg mixture. The mushrooms add an umami flavor and a soft texture that complements the omelette very well.
• Potato omelette with serrano ham: Add thin slices of serrano ham to the potato and egg mixture before cooking. Serrano ham provides a salty, smoky flavor that elevates the flavor profile of the tortilla.

Master a classic and surprise everyone

The potato omelet is much more than a simple dish of eggs and potatoes. It is a symbol of Spanish cuisine, a manifestation of the culinary creativity and ingenuity of people who, with basic ingredients, have created a delicacy that has endured over time. Whether as an appetizer, main course or snack, potato omelette will always be welcome on any table, delighting diners with its comforting flavor and its history rooted in Spanish tradition.

And... by following these detailed steps and putting some imagination into it, you can prepare a perfect potato omelet, with a soft texture and an irresistible flavor that will delight everyone who has the pleasure of trying it. Bon appetit!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT POTATO OMELETTE

What are the basic ingredients of potato omelette?

The basic ingredients are potatoes, eggs, onion, salt and olive oil. However, there are many variants that include other ingredients such as chorizo, peppers, spinach, among others.

Do you eat potato omelette hot or cold?

The potato omelet can be enjoyed hot, freshly made, or cold, at room temperature. Some people even prefer to refrigerate it and eat it the next day, as the flavors can intensify.

How many calories does a portion of potato omelette have?

The amount of calories may vary depending on the ingredients and serving size. On average, a medium-sized serving of tortilla chips can contain around 200-300 calories.

What accompaniments go well with potato omelette?

Some popular accompaniments include fresh bread, green salad, brava sauce, bread with tomato, aioli, roasted peppers, serrano ham, olives, among others.