French Omelette. Gertrude Douglas Weeks. Recipe

French omelette is a classic dish that originated in France. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe has been passed down through generations, making its way into family cookbooks and culinary traditions. The French omelette is known for its light and fluffy texture, packed with delicious fillings like cheese, ham, vegetables, and herbs. It is a dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences, making it a favorite among food lovers around the world.

The history of the French omelette can be traced back to the early 16th century. It was during this time that eggs became widely available and affordable to the general population. Omelettes quickly gained popularity due to their simplicity and versatility. French chefs began experimenting with different fillings and techniques, creating variations of the omelette that are still enjoyed today.

Fun fact: In France, the omelette is considered a breakfast dish, whereas in other parts of the world it may be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is often accompanied by a side of fresh bread, butter, and a cup of coffee.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for French omelette by Gertrude Douglas Weeks:

Ingredients:
- 8 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sweet milk
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Melted butter for the skillet

Instructions:
1. Begin by separating the egg yolks from the whites. Place the yolks in a bowl and beat them well. Set aside the whites for now.
2. To the beaten egg yolks, add the sweet milk, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
3. In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Be careful not to overbeat them.
4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in a denser omelette.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add melted butter. Allow the butter to melt and become smoking hot.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the hot skillet. Let the omelette cook on the bottom for a few minutes until it starts to set.
7. At this point, you have the option to add any desired fillings to the omelette. Some popular choices are cheese, ham, vegetables, and herbs. Sprinkle the fillings evenly over one half of the omelette.
8. Carefully fold the other half of the omelette over the fillings, using a spatula to help guide it.
9. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake the omelette for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and slightly golden on top.
10. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and carefully transfer the omelette onto a serving plate.
11. French omelettes are best enjoyed immediately. Serve hot and savor the delicious flavors.

French omelettes are truly a delight to savor. The light and fluffy texture combined with a variety of fillings make it a versatile dish. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad for a more substantial plate.

Similar to French omelettes, other variations of this dish can be found across different cuisines. For example, Spanish omelettes, also known as tortillas, are made with potatoes and onions. Italian frittatas are thicker and usually cooked in the oven. Mexican omelettes use ingredients like peppers, tomatoes, and spices to give them a vibrant flavor. The possibilities are endless when it comes to omelettes, allowing you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen.

So, grab your whisk, eggs, and fillings of choice, and embark on a culinary journey to create your own masterpiece - a delicious French omelette that will surely impress your family and friends.