Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe that makes it an irresistible dish to anyone who tries it. This classic Spanish favorite is a perfect marriage of tender potatoes, sweet onions, and fluffy eggs all cooked gently in olive oil to create a golden, hearty omelette that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you are looking to impress friends with a traditional dish or simply craving a wholesome meal with minimal fuss, this tortilla delivers flavor, texture, and warmth in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To cook this authentic Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe, you’ll find the ingredients refreshingly simple yet so essential to achieve that perfect taste and texture. Every element plays a key role in creating its characteristic flavor and beautiful golden color.

• Potatoes (750 g / 1.5 lb): Peeled and thinly sliced, they provide the soft, tender body of the tortilla.
• Onion (1 medium): Thinly sliced, adds sweetness and a subtle bite to balance the richness.
• Olive oil (1/2 cup / 125 ml): The secret to cooking the potatoes and onions gently, infusing a fruity aroma and ensuring a silky texture.
• Eggs (8): Give the tortilla its fluffy, rich structure and hold everything together.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors in the dish.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when serving.

How to Make Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes and Onions Gently

Start by heating the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and potatoes, then cover with a lid. This slow cooking method stews the potatoes perfectly, turning them soft but not brown, for about 20 minutes. Turn them a few times with a spatula, making sure nothing sticks or burns. This step is crucial to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines a true tortilla.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs

While the potatoes are cooking, whisk the eggs in a bowl and season generously with salt and pepper. The eggs will bind the ingredients together and create that classic fluffy yet dense consistency you expect from the dish.

Step 3: Drain the Potatoes

Once the potatoes and onions are tender, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander to drain any excess oil. This step ensures the tortilla isn’t greasy but still wonderfully moist.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan for Final Cooking

Pour out most of the leftover oil from the pan, leaving just about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons behind. This amount of oil keeps the tortilla from sticking while giving it a lovely golden crust when cooked.

Step 5: Preheat the Stove and Grill

Turn your stove up to medium-high heat and set your grill or broiler to high. These settings will help the tortilla cook evenly and set perfectly on top.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes with Eggs in the Pan

Return the drained potatoes and onions to the skillet. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over them, spreading everything out gently. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the bottom is lightly golden.

Step 7: Finish Cooking Under the Grill

If the center of your tortilla still looks runny, pop the entire pan under the grill for a few minutes until the eggs are just set. This ensures the tortilla cooks evenly without drying out.

Step 8: Flip and Rest the Tortilla

Carefully place a serving platter on top of the pan and flip it to turn out the tortilla onto the platter. Let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors can settle and the tortilla firms up for easy slicing.

Step 9: Serve Warm or at Room Temperature

This tortilla is delicious served warm, which enhances its comforting qualities. However, it’s also fabulous at room temperature, perfect for gatherings or tapas spreads.

Step 10: Enjoy It as Part of a Tapas Spread

The Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe truly shines when shared with friends as part of a tapas spread. Combining it with olives, crusty bread, and cured meats makes for an unforgettable experience.

How to Serve Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch that adds a burst of green and a fresh note to each slice. You can also experiment with a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to add extra depth and color.

Side Dishes

Serving this tortilla alongside simple tomato salad, marinated olives, or a refreshing green salad complements its richness wonderfully. For heartier meals, pair it with grilled vegetables or Spanish chorizo for a true taste of Spain.

Creative Ways to Present

Fancy a fun twist? Cut the tortilla into bite-sized squares for party platters or serve as slices stacked with layers of roasted red peppers and aioli between for a towering tapa that’s bound to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Wrap it tightly in cling film or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze slices of the tortilla, ideally wrapped in foil and placed in a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to one month, making it perfect for quick meals later on.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to keep the tortilla tender and avoid drying it out. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the eggs rubbery, so use sparingly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While waxy potatoes hold their shape best and provide a creamier texture, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or even red potatoes if you prefer a slightly different mouthfeel.

Is it necessary to cook the tortilla under the grill?

Cooking under the grill is a helpful step to finish setting the top without flipping the omelette repeatedly. If you don’t have a grill, carefully flipping the tortilla can also do the trick but requires more practice.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Yes! While the traditional recipe focuses on potatoes and onions, you can add roasted peppers, spinach, or even chorizo to customize it to your liking, though this may alter the texture and cooking time slightly.

How do I know when the tortilla is fully cooked?

The edges should be set and lightly golden, and the center should be firm to the touch but still moist. If the center jiggles, it needs more time either on the stove or under the grill.

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Since this recipe uses eggs, it’s not vegan, but it is naturally dairy-free. For a vegan version, you’d need to substitute the eggs with a plant-based alternative, although that changes the traditional texture and flavor significantly.

Final Thoughts

Making the Spanish Potato and Onion Tortilla (Omelette) Recipe is like creating a warm hug on a plate. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that is both satisfying and impressive, whether served for family dinner or festive gatherings. I encourage you to give this classic a try and fall in love with each slice just as I did.

Print