This herb-speckled omelette has similar ingredients to the Spanish tortilla but the potatoes are mashed rather than sliced. Serve it as a substantial snack, or a light lunch accompanied by a green salad. It is good eaten cold as well as warm, and makes a wonderful picnic food.
350 g / 12 oz potatoes, chopped
1 Spanish onion, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, chopped
4 eggs
1 tsp Harissa
1 bunch of mixed coriander and parsley, finely chopped
salt
Cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling water until tender. Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp oil in a frying pan and fry the onion, until soft and lightly browned. Stir in the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant.
Drain the potatoes and return to the saucepan. Over a low heat, mash the potatoes, then stir in the onions and garlic. Remove from the heat.
In a mixing bowl, lightly whisk the eggs with the Harissa, herbs and salt. Gradually beat the egg mixture into the potatoes.
Heat the remaining oil in a large heavy frying pan, add the egg and potato mixture and cook over a very low heat until the bottom has set. Brown the top under a hot grill.
Serves 4.
area : North Africa
course : starter
source : North African Cooking : Exotic Delights from Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt / Hilaire Walden