Spanish Potato Omelette – Tortilla de Patatas

Pronounced as ‘Dortiyya’ in Moroccan, this Spanish Potato Omelette is commonly known as ‘Tortilla de Patatas‘ – This classic dish, known for its simplicity and versatility, has been gracing Moroccan tables for generations. Morocco has a rich history and much of it is deeply rooted in Spanish influences. So, this delectable dish has become a staple food in households across both regions.

Crafting this Potato Omelette is not only a culinary journey but a celebration of Spain’s gastronomic legacy in Morocco. From iconic dishes like Paella to vibrant vegetable salads, and street foods like Kalinti, the Spanish influence is apparent when reflecting on the historical ties between the two nations.

How to Present Tortilla

This Spanish Potato Omelette is a versatile recipe suitable for many different occasions. Spanish Cafés elevate its status by presenting it as a tantalizing tapa or appetizer, emphasizing its potential as an exquisite finger food. Its convenience extends beyond the dining table, making it a perfect companion for picnics and a delightful addition to children’s lunch boxes. You can even oven-bake mini tortillas in a cupcake or muffin tray. This not only adds a healthier touch by using less oil and reducing calories but also enhances its visual appeal, making it an ideal choice for Iftaar during Ramadan or a sophisticated starter on a buffet table.

I still have memories of its irresistibly delicious taste lingering from childhood. My mum would put it in a sandwich for my lunch and I proudly introduced it to my friends at school. They were drawing curious gazes from clutching their jam & peanut butter sandwiches. With a confident response, I offered them a bite and true to my words, one taste was all it took to captivate their taste buds.

The Classic Spanish Potato Omelette Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 6 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your Tortilla. The thin slices ensure a harmonious blend of flavours and a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2. Sauté the Onions: In a generous splash of olive oil, sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn golden brown. This step adds a sweet and savoury dimension to your Tortilla, enhancing its overall taste.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the onions, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful oil. Cook them until the potatoes are tender but not overly soft. Striking the right balance here is key to achieving the perfect texture in your Tortilla.
4. Whisk the Eggs: While the potatoes and onions are cooking, whisk the eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The eggs act as the binding agent, holding the ingredients together in a delicious harmony.
5. Combine and Cook: Gently fold the cooked potatoes and onions into the whisked eggs. Ensure an even distribution of ingredients. Heat a non-stick skillet, add a bit of olive oil, and pour in the egg mixture. Cook on medium heat until the edges start to set.
6. The Flip: Now comes the moment of truth – the flip! Carefully invert the Tortilla onto a plate, then slide it back into the skillet with the uncooked side facing down. This step requires a bit of finesse but adds a golden-brown perfection to both sides of your creation.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once both sides are beautifully golden, slide your Tortilla onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool for a moment before slicing into wedges. The result is a visually appealing masterpiece, ready to be enjoyed with your favourite side dishes or as a standalone delight.

Tortilla Variations

While the classic version holds its own allure, the world of tortillas opens up a realm of possibilities. From a simple yet satisfying plain rendition to a gourmet salmon-infused creation, the options are as diverse as they are delightful. Consider experimenting with variations such as salami and cheddar cheese, spinach and feta, tuna with onion and peas, or the tantalizing blend of chicken, garlic, and mushrooms. And for those seeking an extra kick, explore the realm of spice by creating a chilli-infused version that caters to Asian taste buds.

Whether served as a delightful tapa, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this simple and easy timeless dish invites you to enjoy the rich flavours of Spanish cuisine and Moroccan culture.

Salmon & Pepper Tortilla – Spanish Potato Omelette

There are many variations of tortillas, here I made a plain one and a Salmon one but you can also try salami and cheddar cheese, spinach and feta, tuna onion & peas, chicken garlic and mushroom. This dish is so versatile you can even make an extra spicy chilli version for Asian taste buds 😉

Oven-bake mini ones in a cupcake/muffin tray, are probably healthier as they use less oil and are more presentable to serve for Iftaar's in Ramadan or on a buffet table. 

Servings 8

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Ingredients

• 6 Eggs
• 4 Large potatoes depending on size
• 1 tsp Salt to taste
• 1 tsp Crushed red pepper or chilli
• ½ Green pepper diced
• ½ Red pepper diced
• 1 Large onion (I used red but any type will work)
• 1 tin Salmon chunks (in Olive oil is best)
• 2 Garlic cloves peeled & grated

Instructions

• Tortilla – Spanish Potato Omelette

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Moroccan

Keyword: Omelette, Potato, Spanish