Tortilla Española

A tortilla is one of the most common dishes around here. But when you order a "pincho de tortilla" at a restaurant, do not expect those flat, floury things used to make tacos and quesadillas.

The tortilla española is an inch or two think, and it's made by frying potatoes, eggs, and onions in a pan with olive oil. In fact, the correct translation of "tortilla española" to English is actually "Spanish omlette." Sometimes other vegetables or meats are added, but Mercedes usually sticks to just the basics.

It's a pretty versatile food -- it can be eaten hot or cold, as an appetizer or a meal. During orientation, we were advised that if we were trying to fill up on a low budget, order the pincho de tortilla. It's definitely a lot of sustenance.

Here's a typical tortilla with a portion cut out. I stole this one from Wikipedia... It's such a basic thing that I always forget to take pictures of it!