Tortilla De Patata Catalana(Potato Omelet Cataluna Style)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Spanish

A classic Spanish dish featuring a thick potato and onion omelet with tender potatoes and savory flavors. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or light dinner, it offers a comforting and hearty taste that suits all occasions and is enjoyed warm or cold, showcasing simple ingredients elevated by traditional technique.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 to 2 lb. potatoes
  • 2 medium onions
  • 1 to 2 garlic cloves
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 12 eggs

Instructions

  1. Peel potatoes and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Soak the chopped potatoes in water for a while.
  3. Chop onions and crush garlic cloves.
  4. Beat eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Use a deep, straight-sided frying pan approximately 10 or 11 inches in diameter.
  6. Fry potatoes on medium heat in vegetable oil until they are tender but not browned.
  7. Add onions and garlic when potatoes are halfway cooked.
  8. Remove the potato, onion, and garlic mixture from the pan and drain excess oil.
  9. Add the drained mixture to the beaten eggs and mix well.
  10. Return 2 teaspoons of oil to the pan.
  11. Pour the egg and potato mixture into the pan. Cook over medium heat until the bottom is set, moving the pan in a circular motion.
  12. Cover the pan with a plate and invert the omelet onto the plate.
  13. Slide the uncooked side of the omelet back into the pan and cook until fully set.
  14. Allow the omelet to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  15. Serve warm or cold.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of different potatoes. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute onions with leeks or shallots for a milder taste. Using fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also elevate the dish. Make sure to soak the potatoes to remove excess starch, ensuring a better texture.

Serving Suggestions

Tortilla de Patata is delicious served warm or cold and pairs beautifully with a simple salad or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a side of V-8 Vegetable Dip for added flavor. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing Fruit Yogurt Swirl for dessert.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the tortilla cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave for a minute, but be careful not to overcook it.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tortilla De Patata Catalana(Potato Omelet Cataluna Style) contains roughly 467 calories, with 7g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1994mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).

467 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 15.5g 20% DV
Carbs 75.8g 28% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1994.2mg 87% DV
Potassium 956.5mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 129.7mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 41.9mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 10.2mg 11% DV
Calcium 131.1mg 10% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tortilla de Patata in advance?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Just allow it to cool completely before storing it in the fridge. It tastes great the next day, and the flavors meld beautifully. Reheat gently before serving or enjoy it cold, as many do in Spain.

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Starchy potatoes, such as Russets, can become too mushy. A mix of both can also work well for a balance of texture.

Can I add other ingredients to the tortilla?

Absolutely! You can customize your tortilla by adding ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, or even cheese. Just ensure that any added vegetables are cooked before mixing them with the eggs to prevent excess moisture in the omelet.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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