Welcome to Easy Eats Arena, where we believe that great food should be accessible to everyone! Today, we’re diving into the world of Spanish cuisine with a beloved classic: the traditional Spanish tortilla. This dish embodies the essence of Spanish cooking—simple ingredients transformed into something truly spectacular.
For me, the Spanish tortilla isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The sweetness of caramelized onions, the slight bitterness of green olives, and the fabulous softness of perfectly cooked potatoes come together to create a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
If you’ve ever found yourself debating Spanish tortilla vs. frittata, you’re not alone! While both dishes are egg-based, the Spanish tortilla focuses primarily on potatoes and onions, resulting in a thicker, heartier texture compared to the lighter, more varied frittata.
Today, we’ll explore what I believe is the best Spanish tortilla recipe, inspired by Moro: The Cookbook and popularized by resources like Serious Eats. This easy Spanish tortilla recipe serves 6-8 people and is perfect for any occasion—whether as a delightful tapa, a satisfying meal, or a brunch favorite.
Spanish Tortilla Ingredients
- 2 large onions1.5 lbs (700 g) potatoes
- 10 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 750 ml canola oil for deep frying
- 6 cage-free eggs
- Handful of green olives, pickled and pitted
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of a healthy Spanish tortilla lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. According to Moro: The Cookbook, the secret starts with slowly caramelizing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness. This sweetness beautifully balances the slightly bitter notes from the green olives, while the eggs create a creamy, custard-like texture that holds the dish together.
Pro Tip from Easy Eats Arena: For the best Spanish tortilla, use a mix of yellow and red potatoes. The waxy texture of these potatoes holds up well during cooking and adds a delightful creaminess to the tortilla.
Pro Tip from Moro: For the best results, focus on achieving that perfect balance where the potatoes are tender yet slightly crispy. Frying them in canola oil ensures they’re soft inside while retaining a delightful exterior.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep the Onions
Peel and slice the onions thinly. Heat 2-3 teaspoons of olive oil in a pan over low heat, adding the onions with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally until they become soft, golden, and caramelized—about 20-25 minutes. The slow cooking intensifies their sweetness, which is essential for a great tortilla.
Secret Discovered by Easy Eats Arena: Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the caramelization process enhances the flavor profile, adding a subtle depth to the onions without overpowering the dish.
2. Fry the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. In a deep pan, heat the canola oil until shimmering. Fry the potatoes in batches over medium heat until soft inside and lightly crispy outside—about 10 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
Pro Tip: Allow the fried potatoes to cool slightly before adding them to the egg mixture. This helps prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely and ensures a creamy texture.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Gently fold in the caramelized onions, fried potatoes, and a handful of chopped green olives. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the Tortilla
In a non-stick frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg mixture, cooking slowly and using a spatula to shape the edges. Once the bottom is set and golden (after about 5-7 minutes), flip the tortilla onto a plate and slide it back into the pan to cook the other side for 3-4 minutes. The center should remain soft and slightly runny.
Serving Suggestions
A Spanish tortilla can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Traditionally, it’s served with a simple green salad and slices of crusty bread. To enhance the experience, consider pairing it with extra olives, marinated vegetables, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
Secret Discovered by Easy Eats Arena: For an extra layer of flavor, try garnishing your tortilla with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Final Thoughts
At Easy Eats Arena, we’re all about making delicious food accessible to everyone. The Spanish tortilla is a prime example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing this easy Spanish tortilla recipe for a family gathering or a quiet meal at home, each bite offers a taste of Spain’s rich culinary heritage.
So, the next time you’re craving something hearty yet uncomplicated, let this tortilla remind you of the beauty in simplicity. And as the experts at Serious Eats affirm, the secret lies in cooking the onions patiently, adding a dash of love to every step of the process.
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey! Be sure to explore more delicious recipes and tips right here at Easy Eats Arena!
