Traditional Tortilla Española Recipe

2023-07-11

By Happy Rafael

Spanish Cuisine

Main Course

Enjoy a traditional Spanish dish with this Tortilla Española recipe. Made with potatoes, onion, and eggs, this flavorful dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 

Tracing Its Roots in Northern Spain

Also known as tortilla de patatas, is a traditional Spanish dish that is considered a staple of Spanish cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the north-central region of Spain, specifically in the Basque Country and Navarre.

The Flavorful History of Tortilla Española

 The Taste of Tortilla de Patatas

The dish is made from simple ingredients, including potatoes, onions, eggs, and olive oil, although some variations may include additional ingredients such as peppers or chorizo. The tortilla is prepared by slicing the potatoes and onions thinly and then frying them until they are cooked and golden brown. The mixture is then mixed with beaten eggs and cooked on both sides until it is set and golden.

Wine Pairing

The savory and earthy flavors of the egg and potato in tortilla española are balanced by the tannins and fruitiness of Tempranillo. The wine's oak aging also adds notes of vanilla and spice that complement the dish.

Beer Pairing

The malty and slightly bitter amber ale has enough body to stand up to the dish's richness, while its fruity and caramel notes enhance the earthy and sweet flavors of the tortilla.

Pitfalls on Tortilla Española

 Achieving the right texture: Tortilla Española requires a moist yet firm texture. Overcooking the eggs can result in a dry and rubbery tortilla, while undercooking can result in a runny and unappetizing dish.

 Proper flipping technique: Flipping the tortilla can be a tricky process, as it requires sliding the tortilla back into the pan with the uncooked side down. Proper technique and a well-greased pan can make or break the final product.

 Consistency of cuts and temperature: It is important to cut the ingredients to a consistent size to ensure even cooking and prevent the tortilla from falling apart. Temperature control is also key, as cooking too quickly can result in an unevenly cooked tortilla.

 Selecting the right ingredients: The success of Tortilla Española depends on selecting the right ingredients, such as the type of potato and onion used. The potatoes should be waxy, not starchy, and the onions should be sweet and not overpowering.

 Seasoning and flavor: Tortilla Española requires seasoning with salt and pepper, but also other ingredients such as herbs, spices, or smoked paprika to raise the flavor profile. It's important to keep in mind the balance of flavors to ensure a well-balanced dish, spend a few moments on our article Enhance the Flavor. 

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs

• 4 medium potatoes

• 1 onion

• Salt

• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Finely chop the onion.

2. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the potatoes and onion to the skillet and cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste.

4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and add a pinch of salt.

5. Once the potatoes and onion are cooked, transfer them to the bowl with the beaten eggs. Mix well.

6. Pour the mixture back into the skillet and spread it evenly.

7. Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes or until the bottom is golden and set.

8. Flip the tortilla with the help of a plate or lid, and cook the other side for another 5-10 minutes.

9. Once cooked, transfer the tortilla to a plate and let it cool slightly before serving.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 300

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 10g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Tortilla Española

Basque Tortilla: Known as the "Tortilla de Bacalao", this version includes diced salt cod mixed with the traditional ingredients of eggs, potatoes, and onions, seasoned with parsley and garlic.

Asturian Tortilla: Called the "Tortilla de Calabacín", this variation swaps the potatoes for zucchini, then mixed with eggs, caramelized onions, and a hint of smoked paprika.

Catalan Tortilla: This version is called the "Truita de Patates amb Espinacs", made with potatoes, spinach, and pine nuts mixed with eggs, then finished with a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Andalusian Tortilla: Known as the "Tortilla de Camarones", this variation includes diced shrimp mixed with eggs, potatoes, and onions, seasoned with parsley and salt. It is often served as a tapa.

Galician Tortilla: This version is called the "Tortilla de Grelos", made with turnip greens mixed with eggs, potatoes, and onions, seasoned with garlic and paprika, then finished with a drizzle of olive oil.

Canarian Tortilla: Known as the "Tortilla de Plátanos", this variation swaps the potatoes for ripe plantains, then mixed with eggs and caramelized onions, finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Valencian Tortilla: This version called the "Tortilla de Sepia", includes chopped squid mixed with potatoes, onions, and eggs, seasoned with saffron and parsley. It is often served with aioli sauce, there is another version known as "Tortilla Española con Chorizo".

Try out this delicious Spanish recipe and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. Don't forget to share your creations with the hashtag #TortillaEspañola!