Dinner recipe
Tortilla Española Recipe
A practical, source-aware recipe for tortilla española, with the history kept close to the method.
Jump to recipeDeveloped by the Recipe Desk. This original editorial recipe uses measured ingredients, explicit timing and yield, allergen notes, storage guidance, and step-by-step visual cues. Use the stated doneness and texture cues because ingredients, ovens, and kitchen equipment vary.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon plus 2 cups olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- Kosher salt
- 2 medium waxy potatoes (about ¾ lb.), peeled, cut into ¾” pieces
- 8 large eggs
Method
Step 1: Step 1 for Tortilla Española. 1Step 1
Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and dark brown, 35–40 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Step 2 for Tortilla Española. 2Step 2
Meanwhile, heat potatoes and remaining 2 cups oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until oil around potatoes begins to bubble; reduce heat to medium and cook until potatoes are tender but have not taken on any color, 10–12 minutes. Drain potatoes, reserving oil. Season potatoes with salt and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Step 3 for Tortilla Española. 3Step 3
Combine eggs, onion, potatoes, and ¼ cup reserved potato cooking oil in a large bowl and gently beat with a fork.
Step 4: Step 4 for Tortilla Española. 4Step 4
Heat 3 Tbsp. reserved potato cooking oil in a 10” nonstick skillet over medium heat (reserve remaining oil for another use). Add egg mixture and cook, lifting at edge and tilting skillet to let uncooked egg run underneath, until bottom and edge of tortilla are set but center is still wet.
Step 5: Step 5 for Tortilla Española. 5Step 5
Set a large plate on top of skillet. Swiftly invert tortilla onto plate, then slide back into skillet, cooked side up. Cook until center is just set, about 2 minutes longer. Cut into wedges.
Why this dish belongs here
The history behind the method
This dinner builds on the history of the humble tuber that conquered the world, linking the dish to potato’s longer story in food culture.