top of page
  • Writer's pictureMarga K. Manlapig

On Frittatas, Tortillas, and Going Beyond Omelettes


Dilled salmon frittata; cheese focaccia bun

Most people assume that eggs are only for breakfast. But that's actually a serious fallacy as eggs are excellent for any meal in the day. They are so easy to cook, that they work well as a quick lunch or supper.


While many people like a simple fried egg or a plate of scrambled eggs, those who want to throw in a little more effort can whip up an omelette with a couple of eggs and whatever tidbits are lying in the fridge.


Then, there are Italian frittatas and Spanish tortillas, savoury egg dishes that are considerably more substantial than the average omelette. The former is made with whisked eggs, cooked flat on a skillet, and flipped over till flat again - quite unlike an omelette which is either folded (as with the French) or rolled (as with the Japanese tamago-yaki.)


For the most part, frittatas are made with fresh seasonal vegetables (those made with mushrooms and zucchini are amazing), but you could also add bits and bobs or meat, fish, poultry, and even game. They are excellent as an appetiser, but may also be a light and satisfying main when paired with a salad.


The Spanish tortilla, on the other hand, is made with a similar process. But this eggy behemoth is thicker, more substantial, and often served cold (rarely hot) as part of a selection of tapas to go with a drink or six. The best known ones are made with sliced potatoes, perhaps a few slivers or so of zingy white Spanish onion. Commonly, these are sliced up into bite-sized pieces (pinchos de tortilla) that can easily be picked up with one's fingers or with toothpicks.


In countries that used to be Spanish colonies, these are significantly thinner and are eaten as a main course for breakfast or dinner. In the Philippines, that means serving it with hot rice and a generous dollop of tomato ketchup



Dilled salmon frittata; cheese focaccia bun

In any case, either frittatas or tortillas need to be flipped over in one piece, ensuring that both sides are nicely browned and the ingredients within are properly cooked. But, if you can't manage that, you can always fold the egg over and make yourself an omelette. Just don't forget a good piece of toast or a freshly baked bun.

Recent Posts

See All
Post: Blog2_Post
bottom of page