Egyptian Spinach Omelet

Egyptian Spinach Omelet Recipe - Delicious and Healthy Breakfast Option

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Egyptian Spinach Omelet is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh spinach, onions, tomatoes, and chickpeas with eggs and nutmeg. This savory omelet is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

History

This recipe has its roots in Egyptian cuisine, where spinach is a popular ingredient in many dishes. Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) fresh baby spinach
2 tbsp canola or vegetable oil
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
salt
freshly ground pepper
6 eggs
0.25 tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp canola or vegetable oil
1 (15 oz (425 g)) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

How to prepare

Rinse and drain the spinach, then squeeze out any excess water.
Place the spinach in a saucepan over medium heat, cover with a lid, and allow it to wilt.
Remove the spinach from the heat and drain it in a colander, making sure to remove all excess water.
Heat the oil in a large cast-iron skillet or another ovenproof skillet.
Add the chopped onions and cook until they are tender and lightly golden.
Add the tomatoes to the skillet and season them to taste with salt and pepper.
Cook for 12–15 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the liquid is reduced.
Preheat the broiler.
Lightly beat the eggs in a bowl and season them to taste with salt and pepper.
Stir in the nutmeg to flavor the eggs.
Add the tomato mixture and spinach to the beaten eggs and mix well.
Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of oil in the cast-iron or ovenproof skillet and pour in the mixture.
Top with canned chickpeas.
Cook over low heat for approximately 10–12 minutes or until the bottom has set, then place it under the broiler to finish setting the top.
It should be firm and lightly browned when it is done.
Cut it into slices and serve.

Variations

Add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Use different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the spinach to prevent the omelet from becoming watery.

- Cooking the onions until they are tender and golden will add a rich flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to season the eggs well with salt, pepper, and nutmeg for a flavorful omelet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Egyptian Spinach Omelet with a side of fresh fruit or a salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Wilt the spinach before adding it to the omelet to prevent excess water.

- Cook the omelet over low heat to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't burn.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of canola or vegetable oil for a different flavor.

- Substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes if they are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook the omelet.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the omelet with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Egyptian Spinach Omelet with a side of pita bread or rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Egyptian Spinach Omelet contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Egyptian Spinach Omelet contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Egyptian Spinach Omelet contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Egyptian Spinach Omelet contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and chickpeas, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Egyptian Spinach Omelet is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is a healthy and delicious meal option for any time of day.

Summary

Egyptian Spinach Omelet is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. Packed with fresh vegetables, eggs, and chickpeas, this omelet is a satisfying and healthy option for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Egyptian Spinach Omelet. It was a warm summer day, and the scent of spices filled the air as I flipped through an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend, Fatima. She had passed away last year, but her love for cooking and sharing recipes lived on through her cherished book.

As I read through the pages, my eyes landed on the recipe for the Egyptian Spinach Omelet. The combination of spinach, onions, and spices intrigued me, and I knew I had to try it out. I had always been a lover of trying new recipes and adding my own twist to them, so this seemed like the perfect opportunity to honor Fatima's memory and expand my culinary horizons.

I set to work gathering the ingredients I would need for the omelet. Fresh spinach, onions, garlic, coriander, cumin, and eggs were all laid out on my kitchen counter, ready to be transformed into a delicious meal. As I chopped the spinach and onions, the familiar scents of my childhood filled the room, transporting me back to my grandmother's kitchen where I first fell in love with cooking.

I sautéed the onions and garlic in a hot pan, the sizzle of the vegetables music to my ears. The fragrance of the spices filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As I added the spinach to the pan, it wilted and released its earthy aroma, blending perfectly with the other ingredients.

Next, I cracked the eggs into a bowl and whisked them together until they were light and fluffy. I poured the eggs over the spinach mixture in the pan, watching as they began to set around the edges. With a quick flick of my wrist, I folded the omelet in half, the steam rising from the pan filled with the tantalizing scents of the spices and vegetables.

I plated the omelet and took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my taste buds. The earthy spinach paired perfectly with the warm spices, creating a dish that was both comforting and exotic. I could taste the love and history that went into this recipe, a blend of tradition and innovation that spoke to my soul.

As I enjoyed my Egyptian Spinach Omelet, I thought of Fatima and how she had shared her passion for cooking with me. Her recipes had become a part of my own culinary repertoire, each one telling a story of the people and places that had influenced her over the years. I felt grateful for the opportunity to carry on her legacy, to honor her memory through the food I created and shared with others.

In that moment, I realized that cooking was more than just a way to nourish the body. It was a way to connect with the past, to honor our traditions, and to share our love with those around us. And as I finished my meal, I knew that the Egyptian Spinach Omelet would become a staple in my own recipe collection, a reminder of the friendship and love that had inspired me to cook in the first place.