Omelettes

Omelettes are a type of dish made from eggs that are beaten, cooked until set, and folded around a filling such as cheese, vegetables, or meat. They are a popular choice for breakfast and brunch, but can also be served as a light lunch or dinner.

History

The word "omelette" comes from the French word "amelette," which is derived from "alemelle," meaning "knife blade." This is likely a reference to the flat, folded shape of the dish. The omelette has been a staple in many cultures' cuisines for centuries, with variations found in countries such as France, Spain, Italy, and China.

Preparation

To make an omelette, eggs are first beaten in a bowl until the yolks and whites are fully combined. The beaten eggs are then poured into a hot, greased frying pan. As the eggs begin to set, they are gently pulled from the edges of the pan towards the center, allowing the uncooked eggs to flow underneath. Once the eggs are mostly set but still slightly runny on top, the filling is added and the omelette is folded in half.

Variations

There are many variations of the omelette, both in terms of the ingredients used for the filling and the method of preparation. For example, a French omelette is typically cooked so that the eggs are soft and slightly runny on the inside, while an Italian frittata is more like a crustless quiche, with the eggs and filling mixed together before cooking. In Spain, a tortilla española is a thick, hearty omelette made with potatoes and onions.

Nutritional Value

Omelettes are a good source of protein due to the eggs, and can also provide other nutrients depending on the filling. For example, a vegetable-filled omelette can be a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, while a cheese-filled omelette can provide calcium.

See Also

• Scrambled eggs
• Quiche
• Eggs