Spain is renowned for its cuisine, with dishes like paella and gazpacho known worldwide. Paella is even often referred to abroad as the national dish of Spain.
Forget about paella.
One dish represents Spanish cuisine the best: tortilla de patatas, also known as Spanish potato omelet.
Spanish Potato Omelet
Tortilla de Patatas as Spain’s National Dish
Tortilla de patatas (or tortilla española) is truly one of the most famous and beloved Spanish dishes. Spanish cuisine is embodied by it for several reasons:
- It is simple. Tortilla consists essentially of just potatoes, eggs, onions, and oil. It demonstrates that even with a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious dish.
- It is ubiquitous. You’ll find tortilla all over Spain, in every region. It’s available in the north in Basque Country, as well as in the south in Alicante. It is served as tapas, part of menú del día, and even as a filling for a crispy baguette.
- It is versatile. There are many variations and regional adaptations of tortilla. Vegetables, cured ham (jamón), chorizo sausage… It can be more or less cooked through.
- It is traditional. The recipe is passed down from generation to generation and has a long history. It is a traditional folk dish made from accessible ingredients.
- It is communal. Spaniards often prepare and eat tortilla together with family and friends. It symbolizes the sharing and togetherness of the Spanish lifestyle.
- It is universal. Tortilla is loved across all social classes; you can find it in humble bars and Michelin-starred restaurants.
🇪🇸 Tip: After a great Spanish food, make sure to experience some authentic Spanish flamenco. I attended a performance at Las Carboneras tablao flamenco in Madrid, which I highly recommend. However, performances are available all over Spain, and you can buy tickets in advance online.
Despite its name, it has nothing to do with Mexican tortillas. Its texture is more similar to an Italian frittata. The word “tortilla” is a diminutive of the Spanish word “torta,” which means “cake.” The basic ingredients are just three: potatoes, eggs, and olive oil. Some also add onions, which, however, sparks passionate debates among Spaniards between its supporters (cebollistas) and detractors (sin cebollistas). I am clear on this “crucial” Spanish gastronomic question. No onions! 😁
The Origin and History of Tortilla de Patatas
Potatoes, the main ingredient of tortilla de patatas, were brought to Europe by Spanish adventurers only in the fifteenth century. Initially, they were viewed with suspicion and were more likely to end up as animal feed. It took more than two hundred years for them to find their way onto Spanish plates. The birthplace of tortilla de patatas is considered to be the village of Villanueva de la Serena in the Extremadura region. It is from here that documents from 1798 describe a potato omelet as a cheap and filling dish suitable for feeding the masses. The importance of tortilla to the local community is also evidenced by a statue unveiled in 2021 during the annual festival.
Preparing Tortilla de Patatas
Preparing a Spanish omelet is surprisingly simple. However, its taste depends on the quality of the ingredients used, especially olive oil, and the skill of the cook. The correct preparation method is passed down from generation to generation. The most important aspects are properly sautéing the potatoes and confidently flipping the omelet during cooking. Some prefer their tortilla de patatas slightly runny, while others like it thoroughly cooked. I prefer this dish (like scrambled eggs) slightly runny. That’s the perfect typical Spanish breakfast for me.
The Importance of Tortilla de Patatas for Spaniards
Although it might seem strange to place such importance on a seemingly simple dish, for Spaniards, tortilla de patatas represents much more than just food. Without any exaggeration, it symbolizes home, family, and national pride. You can find it in every household, from the poorest to the richest. It is prepared for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It tastes great hot or cold. It unites Spaniards across regions and social classes.
It is simply the heart of Spanish cuisine.
Bon appétit!
🇪🇸 Tip: After Spanish food and wine, a bit of passive relaxation is also good. Check out boat cruises, which are available in most Spanish cities (even inland ones). You will recharge for more tastings! ⛵
