Spanish Omelette is a staple cuisine of Spain that has gained huge popularity in the entire world. It is made from eggs, potatoes, and onions; and served at room temperature. The first reference to the tortilla is found in Navarrese document as an anonymous Mousehole’s memorial addressed to the Navarre regions’ court in 1817. It explains the sparse condition of sparse conditions of Navarre’s farmers in contrast with those in Pamplona and la Ribera.
The story behind invention of Tortilla goes like during the siege of Bilbao, Carlist general Tomas de Zumalacarregue invented tortilla de patatas as an easy to make and nutritious dish to satisfy the scarcities of the Carlist army. Although it remains unknown, it appears that tortilla started to spread during the early Carlist wars. Another assumption is that the recipe was learned by Spanish prisoners after the Battle of Montes Claros during the Portuguese Restoration War in 1665. After the Portuguese victory, more than 6000 Spanish soldiers were kept behind bars for 2 years until the Treaty of Lisbon was signed. Upon their release, these soldiers brought part of the culture of Alentejo to Spain.
Variations
Spanish Omelette can range from authentic and carefully made seasoned preparation of raw potatoes to a variety of carefully selected ingredients for best results. These days, some chefs also use nontraditional ingredients, such as green peppers, chorizo, courgette, aubergine, mushrooms, and diced ham for preparing these omelettes.
Unlike other variants of omelettes, Spanish Omelette do not dry up quickly and remain juicy for at least 24 hours. In Spain, a tortilla is always served with bread or fried pimientos de padron. In most bars and canteens, it is served with a sandwich bocadillo.
Preparation
Traditionally, made from potatoes and eggs, Spanish omelettes are widely eaten in Spain and some Spanish-speaking countries. While there are numerous regional variations, the basic version of Spanish omelettes always remains the same. While some people are of the view that onions were used in these omelettes since its introduction phase, others believe that this addition was made only in the recent time.
The preparation of Spanish omelettes starts with frying potatoes at low flame, with sliced onions being added at this stage is used. These ingredients are stirred at a moderate temperature until they are soft, not brown. Then, this mixture is taken in another bowl and stirred well with beaten eggs. This mixture is then evenly spread on a frying pan after applying a layer of olive oil. Once the content is cooked on one side, a pan should be placed over the mixture and it can be inverted onto the separate pan. The other side should also be cooked until turning brown.
Serving
Spanish Omelette can be served hot as well as cold. It is generally served as a tapa during cocktail party or get-togethers. But it’s equally good as a tasty and fulfilling breakfast or lunch. You can always make it a great addition to sandwiches or burger. And, don’t be afraid to add it in vegetables like bell peppers, artichokes, or chorizo. The serving strategy can be as flexible as the preparation strategy.
Spanish Omelette is one of those simple yet irresistible dishes that everyone loves to eat. If you are looking forward to enjoying this omelette, then place your order with Gastronomic Spain. We will deliver your order in no time.
