Tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette, is a classic dish from Spain that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be enjoyed hot or cold. The combination of tender potatoes and onions with fluffy eggs makes it a versatile and delicious option for any time of the day.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in any kitchen. However, you may need to ensure you have enough olive oil on hand, as it is used generously in this dish to cook the potatoes and onions. Additionally, make sure to select large potatoes that will yield enough slices for the recipe.

Ingredients For Tortilla Española Recipe
Potatoes: The main ingredient, providing the bulk and texture of the dish. Choose large, starchy potatoes for the best results.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the tortilla. Thinly slice for even cooking.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and creates the omelette structure. Beaten well to incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the potatoes and onions, and adds richness to the dish. Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients. Season to taste.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth. Season to taste.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When cooking the potatoes and onions in the olive oil, ensure they are cooked slowly over medium heat to allow them to become tender without browning too quickly. This will help the tortilla achieve a creamy texture inside.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
peeled and thinly sliced large potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a slightly sweeter flavor and a different nutritional profile, adding a unique twist to the dish.
peeled and thinly sliced large potatoes - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini offers a lighter, lower-carb alternative while still providing a similar texture when cooked.
thinly sliced onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks have a milder, slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a subtle difference to the dish.
thinly sliced onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a more delicate and nuanced flavor, which can enhance the overall taste of the tortilla.
beaten eggs - Substitute with egg whites: Using egg whites reduces the cholesterol and fat content while still providing the necessary binding and texture.
beaten eggs - Substitute with chickpea flour and water mixture: This vegan alternative mimics the binding properties of eggs and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle coconut flavor and also has a high smoke point suitable for frying.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a different mineral content and a slightly different flavor profile compared to regular table salt.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor, often described as more earthy and less pungent.
black pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika adds a mild heat and a smoky flavor, which can complement the other ingredients in the tortilla.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the tortilla espanola to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the tortilla soggy.
Once cooled, wrap the tortilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure it is well-sealed to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.
Place the wrapped tortilla in an airtight container. This extra layer of protection will help keep it fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
For freezing, cut the tortilla into individual portions. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need, reducing waste.
Wrap each portion in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, which usually takes about 2-3 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the portions to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of its freshness. The tortilla can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, use the microwave on a defrost setting.
Reheat the tortilla in a non-stick skillet over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be cautious as it may alter the texture slightly.
Enjoy your tortilla espanola as a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a delightful snack, maintaining its delicious flavors and textures.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortilla espanola on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method ensures even heating and maintains the texture of the potatoes and eggs.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the tortilla espanola in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are warmed evenly. This method helps retain the crispy exterior.
Microwave Method: Place a slice of tortilla espanola on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the eggs rubbery.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortilla espanola on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method is great for reheating smaller portions while keeping the potatoes and onions tender.
Steam Method: Place the tortilla espanola in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This gentle method helps retain moisture and prevents the eggs from becoming dry.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Frying pan: Used to cook the potatoes, onions, and the egg mixture. A non-stick frying pan is ideal for this recipe.
Mixing bowl: Used to beat the eggs and mix them with the cooked potatoes and onions.
Spatula: Helps in stirring the potatoes and onions while cooking and for mixing the egg mixture.
Plate: Used to flip the tortilla to cook the other side.
Knife: Essential for peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes and onions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the potatoes and onions.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and ensure they are well mixed.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the olive oil accurately.
Peeler: Used to peel the potatoes efficiently.
How to Save Time on Making This Dish
Pre-cook potatoes: Microwave the potatoes for a few minutes before slicing to reduce frying time.
Use a mandoline: Slice potatoes and onions quickly and uniformly with a mandoline slicer.
Non-stick pan: Use a non-stick frying pan to prevent sticking and make flipping easier.
Batch cooking: Cook potatoes and onions in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.
Pre-beat eggs: Beat the eggs while the potatoes and onions are cooking to streamline the process.
Tortilla Espanola Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 units Large potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 unit Onion thinly sliced
- 6 units Eggs beaten
- ½ cup Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- 2. Add the sliced potatoes and onions, cook until tender.
- 3. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Add the cooked potatoes and onions to the eggs, mix well.
- 5. Pour the mixture back into the frying pan, cook on low heat until set.
- 6. Flip the tortilla using a plate, cook the other side until golden brown.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Dish
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