Classic French Omelet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: French
Description
A French omelet is a classic and elegant breakfast dish, characterized by its smooth, pale exterior and soft, slightly creamy interior. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including eggs, butter, and a touch of water or milk, this omelet is gently cooked over low heat and expertly folded to create a delicate, rolled shape. Often garnished with fresh herbs, a French omelet is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking, offering a light and refined start to the day.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water or milk (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or tarragon), finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with water or milk (if using) and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet (about 8 inches in diameter) over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the pan.
- Cook the Eggs: Pour the egg mixture into the skillet. As the eggs begin to set, gently stir with a rubber spatula, lifting and folding the eggs from the edges towards the center, allowing the uncooked eggs to flow underneath.
- Shape the Omelet: Once the eggs are mostly set but still slightly runny on top, stop stirring. Tilt the pan slightly and use the spatula to fold a third of the omelet towards the center. Then, tilt the pan in the opposite direction and fold the other side towards the center, overlapping the first fold.
- Finish Cooking: Place the remaining tablespoon of butter on top of the folded omelet. Let it melt and slide down the sides. This will help create a smooth, glossy exterior.
- Serve: Carefully slide the omelet onto a plate, seam side down. The omelet should be lightly set on the outside and slightly creamy inside. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
A classic French omelet is known for its smooth, pale exterior with no browning and a tender, slightly creamy interior. It’s typically not filled with ingredients like a traditional American omelet, but feel free to add a sprinkle of cheese or herbs inside before folding if you like.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 500mg
