Tortilla de Patatas Recipe
About the Dish:
Tortilla de patatas, also known as Spanish omelet, is one of Spain’s most iconic and versatile dishes. Enjoyed at any time of the day, it’s a staple in both homes and restaurants across the country. The classic recipe is made with eggs and potatoes, but slight variations make each tortilla unique.
Key Points to Note:
- Main Ingredients: Potatoes, eggs, onions (optional, but highly recommended).
- Variations: Some people add ingredients like ham or peas, but these are less common.
- Cooking Style: You can choose how you cook the eggs—runny, dry, or somewhere in between.
Tips for Perfection:
- Use room-temperature, high-quality eggs.
- Caramelize the onions to enhance the flavor.
- Cook in a small frying pan for better control (I recommend making several small tortillas instead of one large one).
Personal Preference:
I prefer my tortilla cooked to a medium consistency—not overly runny, but still gooey on the inside.
Tortilla de Patatas is incredibly versatile, and over time, people have created numerous delicious variations! Here are some popular ones:

- Tortilla with Onion (Tortilla de Patatas con Cebolla):
- The classic debate—onions or no onions? Adding caramelized onions brings a slight sweetness and depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Tortilla with Ham (Tortilla con Jamón):
- Thin slices of jamón serrano (Spanish cured ham) are folded into the tortilla for an extra savory kick.
- Tortilla with Vegetables:
- Ingredients like red bell peppers, zucchini, or peas are added for a more colorful and nutritious twist.
- Tortilla with Chorizo:
- Spicy Spanish chorizo adds a smoky and flavorful touch to the classic recipe.
- Tortilla with Cheese (Tortilla con Queso):
- Cheese lovers can mix grated manchego or other cheeses into the tortilla for a gooey, cheesy delight.
- Tortilla Rellena (Stuffed Tortilla):
- This version involves slicing the tortilla in half and filling it with ingredients like mayonnaise, tuna, roasted red peppers, or even spinach.
- Tortilla with Mushrooms (Tortilla con Champiñones):
- Sautéed mushrooms are added for an earthy, rich flavor.
- Low-Carb Tortilla:
- Instead of potatoes, some versions use eggplant or zucchini as the main ingredient for a lighter option.