Go Back
authentic spanish torta recipe

Authentic Spanish Torta

This classic Spanish tortilla española features tender potatoes and eggs cooked to perfection. With a crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior, this versatile dish works beautifully for any meal of the day or as tapas for your next gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 6 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk adds fluffiness
  • salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1/2 onion red or white, chopped
  • 6 potatoes red or small Yukon gold, peeled and thinly sliced
  • olive oil enough to cover potatoes while cooking

Equipment

  • 10-inch non-stick frying pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large plate (for flipping)

Method
 

  1. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly. The thinner your slices, the more delicate your final torta will be.
  2. In a deep 10-inch frying pan, pour enough olive oil to completely cover the potatoes. Add the sliced potatoes, chopped garlic, and chopped onion.
  3. Cook everything uncovered over medium-low heat until the potatoes become tender but not browned, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Once potatoes have softened, drain off most of the oil, saving about 2 tablespoons for later use. Allow the potato mixture to cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add the drained potato mixture and let everything rest together for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  6. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, remembering that potatoes absorb quite a bit of salt.
  7. Heat a 10-inch non-stick frying pan with the reserved olive oil. Pour in your egg-potato mixture and cook over low heat until the eggs are mostly set but the top is still slightly runny.
  8. Test doneness by inserting a fork—it should come out clean from the bottom portion.
  9. Using a large plate or pan lid, carefully invert the torta, then slide it back into the pan to finish cooking the other side until golden and fully set.
  10. Alternatively, you can finish cooking the torta in a 400°F (200°C) oven until the top is set if you prefer not to flip it.
  11. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For the most authentic flavor, use good quality Spanish olive oil. The torta can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold—many Spaniards prefer it at room temperature.
This dish is extremely versatile—serve it for breakfast with crusty bread, as a light lunch with a side salad, or cut into small squares for tapas. For storage, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Regional variations might include adding bell peppers, chorizo, or manchego cheese to the basic recipe.