The Spanish Tortilla de Patatas is simple to make yet impressive to serve.
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The Spanish omelet, or tortilla de patatas, holds a place in classic culinary traditions. This tasty and straightforward dish has spread its popularity beyond Spain’s borders, finding its way into the hearts of many worldwide, including America.
Although the exact origins of tortilla de patatas remain somewhat uncertain, they are commonly believed to have originated in the early 19th century. One popular theory suggests that the dish was first crafted in Navarra, Spain, amidst the Carlist Wars. Legend has it that General Tomás de Zumalacárregui, looking to feed his soldiers, whipped up a nourishing meal using eggs and potatoes.
Another narrative traces the roots of tortilla de patatas back to Extremadura, where a homemaker purportedly invented this dish to satisfy her family’s hunger using potatoes and eggs she had on hand. Despite these varying tales about its inception, one thing is certain—tortilla de patatas quickly became a popular dish across Spain and an essential part of its cuisine.
Tortilla de patatas has gained popularity in America due to the proliferation of tapas bars and an increasing fascination with Spanish cuisine. American chefs and home cooks have warmly welcomed this dish for its simple preparation (much like an Easy Omelet), rich flavor profile, and versatility. It may also remind you of a Baked Frittata, which also has an egg base.
Is Tortilla de Patatas Healthy?
Tortilla de patatas is not only tasty but also good for you since it is made with wonderful ingredients, like potatoes, eggs, onions, and olive oil. Potatoes provide lasting energy and are loaded with vitamin B6, along with minerals, such as potassium. Eggs are a protein powerhouse for muscle growth and repair. They also offer nutrients like vitamin D, choline and omega-3 fatty acids. The olive oil used in preparing tortilla de patatas is a good fat known for its anti-inflammatory properties and rich antioxidant content. So, unless you must avoid carbs (from the potatoes), there are plenty of reasons to add tortilla de patatas to your menu.
What is a Yukon gold potato?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a variety of spuds known for their silky, delicate skin and vibrant yellow interior. They boast a decadent buttery taste and a creamy consistency that lends itself well to culinary uses. These potatoes maintain their shape admirably when cooked, yet also mash wonderfully when making Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes.
When preparing tortilla de patatas, Yukon Golds prove to be the best selection. Their smooth texture and sweet flavor perfectly complement the egg and onion in this Spanish omelet, resulting in a harmonious medley of tastes. Moreover, their ability to retain firmness while remaining tender during cooking, guarantees that each slice of tortilla is perfection.
INGREDIENTS
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare
Season and fry potatoes; caramelize onions.
Combine
Mix potatoes, onions, and eggs; let sit.
Cook
Cook omelet, flip carefully, and serve.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
After the tortilla de patatas is done, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. Once that part is complete, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or put the leftover tortilla in a container with a lid. Place the leftovers in the refrigerator where they will be good for about 3 days. You can also freeze the tortilla de patatas in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating an omelet is simple. Begin by warming a pan on medium heat. Drizzle some olive oil to prevent sticking. Cut the omelet into pieces and place them in the pan. Cover with a lid to retain moisture, preventing it from drying out. Heat for around 3 to 5 minutes on each side until thoroughly warmed. Alternatively, you can use the microwave: arrange slices on a microwave plate cover with a moist paper towel and heat for 1 to 2 minutes.
It’s frustrating when the ingredients stick to the pan since you want a uniform result. Even if you don’t regularly use non-stick pans, it is best to use one for your tortilla de patatas, along with the drizzle of oil. For the dish to work properly, it can’t stick to the pan. If you find yours is sticking, try again with a high-quality non-stick pan.
Serving Suggestions
Tortilla de patatas makes a great breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. That means the possibilities for serving it are endless.
For breakfast, a side of Easy Baked Maple Bacon or Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage will do the trick, or a simple piece of toast with Homemade Chia Jam. For other meals, a light salad would complement the tortilla de patatas nicely. Consider a Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Salad for a sweet and refreshing taste. No matter what you pair with the Spanish tortilla de patatas, you’ll enjoy the flavors and heritage of this simple yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 6 large eggs beaten
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat dry the sliced potatoes with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Season with salt.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the potatoes until tender, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate pan, sauté the onions with a pinch of salt until caramelized, about 10 minutes, then combine with the beaten eggs.
- Add the cooked potatoes to the egg and onion mixture, and let it sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Pour the mixture back into the skillet, and cook over low heat until the eggs are set but still slightly runny on top, about 5-7 minutes.
- Place a large plate over the skillet and carefully flip the omelet onto the plate, then slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side, about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked tortilla de patatas to a serving plate, let it cool for a few minutes, then cut into wedges and serve.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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