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Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick). The potatoes need to be soft and tender in the tortilla, so slicing them thinly helps achieve this texture.
If you choose to include onion, peel and finely chop it. The onion adds a nice sweetness and depth of flavor to the tortilla, but it’s optional, as many traditional recipes exclude it.
2. Cook the Potatoes (and Onion)
In a large skillet, add enough olive oil to generously cover the bottom of the pan—about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on the size of your skillet. Heat the oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced potatoes (and onions, if using). Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan. You want to soften the potatoes, not fry them until crispy. The goal is to cook them gently until tender, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
Season with a pinch of salt as the potatoes cook. Be careful not to overcook them or let them brown; the texture should be tender but not crispy.
3. Beat the Eggs
While the potatoes are cooking, crack the eggs into a large bowl and season them with salt and a bit of pepper. Whisk the eggs until they are fully combined and slightly frothy.
4. Combine Potatoes and Eggs
Once the potatoes are soft and cooked through, remove them from the skillet using a slotted spoon and transfer them to the bowl with the beaten eggs. If you’ve used onions, they’ll be included as well. Let the potatoes sit in the egg mixture for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the potatoes to absorb some of the egg and gives the tortilla its signature texture.
5. Cook the Tortilla
After the potatoes have soaked in the eggs, it’s time to cook the tortilla. Remove most of the excess oil from the skillet, leaving just a thin layer to coat the bottom. Place the skillet over medium heat.
Pour the egg and potato mixture into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the edges to set while the center remains slightly runny. You can use a spatula to gently lift the edges to let the uncooked egg flow to the bottom.
6. Flip the Tortilla
This is the trickiest part of making a Spanish tortilla: flipping it without making a mess! To do this:
- Place a large plate over the skillet.
- Carefully flip the skillet upside down so the tortilla lands on the plate.
- Slide the tortilla back into the skillet, uncooked side down, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the tortilla is fully set but still tender on the inside.
The tortilla should have a golden-brown crust, with a soft, creamy interior. The inside should be moist but not runny.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the tortilla is fully cooked, slide it onto a plate, and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Spanish tortilla is often served at room temperature, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later.
Cut the tortilla into wedges and serve it as a main dish, or slice it into smaller pieces for tapas. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, some crusty bread, or even a glass of chilled Spanish wine.
Tips for the Perfect Spanish Tortilla
- Patience is key: Don’t rush the cooking process, especially when it comes to softening the potatoes. It’s important to cook them slowly so they absorb the flavors of the olive oil and become tender.
- Use a non-stick pan: If you’re new to flipping tortillas, a non-stick pan will make the process much easier and reduce the chances of the tortilla sticking or breaking apart.
- Experiment with flavors: While the classic Spanish tortilla recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like chorizo, bell peppers, or even cheese for a different twist.
- Resting time: Letting the tortilla rest for a few minutes before slicing helps it set and enhances the flavor.
Conclusion
The Spanish tortilla is one of those timeless dishes that’s beloved for its simplicity, comfort, and versatility. With just a few ingredients and some careful technique, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or serving it as part of a tapas spread, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
So, grab your eggs, potatoes, and olive oil, and get cooking! The classic Spanish tortilla is waiting to become one of your go-to meals for years to come.
