Description of this recipe
The Ham and Cheese Omelette is a timeless dish, a staple in breakfast spreads and brunch menus worldwide. This recipe elevates the classic by focusing on technique and quality ingredients, ensuring a fluffy, flavorful, and visually appealing omelette every time. From the careful whisking of the eggs to the gentle warming of the ham and the precise cooking of the omelette itself, every step is designed to maximize taste and texture.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Ham and Cheese Omelette because it transforms a simple dish into a gourmet experience. The secret lies in the details: the touch of cream for extra richness, the warmed ham for intensified flavor, and the perfectly melted cheese that oozes with every bite. This recipe is not just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about crafting a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. This omelette is quick enough for a weekday breakfast yet elegant enough for a weekend brunch, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
Cups
- ▢ 3 large eggs, ~55g/2oz each (fridge cold fine)
- ▢ Pinch of salt (that’s all you need)
- ▢ 1 tbsp cream (or milk), optional (Note 1)
- ▢ 1/3 cup chopped ham (I use store bought, Note 2)
- ▢ 1/3 – 1/2 cup shredded colby cheese, use box grater (or cheddar, tasty, gruyere, Monterey Jack – Note 3)
Metric
- ▢ 3 large eggs, ~55g/2oz each (fridge cold fine)
- ▢ Pinch of salt (that’s all you need)
- ▢ 15 ml cream (or milk), optional (Note 1)
- ▢ 75 g chopped ham (I use store bought, Note 2)
- ▢ 75 – 115 g shredded colby cheese, use box grater (or cheddar, tasty, gruyere, Monterey Jack – Note 3)
Cooking / Add-ins
- ▢ 1 tbsp/ 15 g unsalted butter (or 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil)
Serving (optional, pictured)
- ▢ 1 stem chive, finely chopped
- ▢ Garlic butter roasted mushrooms
- ▢ Roasted cherry tomatoes (on vine, Note 4)
- ▢ Toast
Preparation:
The key to a perfect omelette is precise execution. Follow these steps closely to achieve culinary excellence:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
In a medium-sized bowl, crack the three large eggs. Add a pinch of salt and the optional tablespoon of cream or milk. Whisk vigorously for about 10 seconds, just until the mixture is slightly foamy. Over-whisking can lead to a tough omelette, so aim for a light and airy consistency.
Step 2: Warm the Ham
Melt 1/3 of the butter (or use extra virgin olive oil) in a 24cm/9.5″ non-stick pan over medium heat. Ensure the pan is evenly coated with the melted butter to prevent sticking. Add the chopped ham and cook for about 90 seconds, using a rubber spatula to stir and warm it through. Remove the ham from the pan and set aside in a bowl. This step enhances the ham’s flavor and prevents it from cooling down the omelette later.
Step 3: Semi-Scramble the Eggs
Melt the remaining butter in the same pan, ensuring it coats the base evenly. Give the egg mixture a quick whisk to reincorporate any settled ingredients. Pour the eggs into the pan and let them sit undisturbed for about 15 seconds, or until the very edges begin to set.
Step 4: Create the Omelette Base
Using a rubber spatula, gently push the cooked egg from the edges towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath and onto the hot pan surface. Continue this process for about 30 seconds, creating a partially cooked egg base. The goal is to have a surface that is wet enough to spread like jam but not so wet that the egg runs when you tilt the pan.
Step 5: Add the Fillings
Spread the semi-cooked egg evenly across the pan. On one half of the omelette, sprinkle the shredded cheese, followed by the warmed ham. The residual heat will begin to melt the cheese, creating a gooey, delicious filling.
Step 6: Fold and Finish
By this time, the omelette should be almost cooked through, with a shiny, custardy surface. Carefully loosen the unfilled side of the omelette using two rubber spatulas. Gently fold the naked side over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Leave the omelette in the pan for another 30 seconds to allow the cheese to fully melt and the inside to finish cooking.
Step 7: Serve
Slide the omelette onto a plate, or for a more dramatic presentation, flip it onto the plate. Sprinkle with finely chopped chives, if desired. Serve immediately with garlic butter roasted mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, and toast for a complete and satisfying meal.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Medium. The technique requires some practice, but the recipe is straightforward.
Serving Suggestions:
This Ham and Cheese Omelette is delicious on its own but can be elevated with complementary sides. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic butter roasted mushrooms
- Roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine
- Toasted sourdough bread
- A side of fresh fruit salad
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley
Tips:
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the omelette from sticking.
- Don’t over-whisk the eggs; aim for a light and foamy consistency.
- Warm the ham before adding it to the omelette to enhance its flavor.
- Use high-quality cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your stove and pan.
- For a fluffier omelette, try adding a tablespoon of sparkling water to the egg mixture.
- Experiment with different cheese and ham combinations to customize the flavor.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 350-450 calories per serving
Protein:
Approximately 25-35 grams per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 500-700 milligrams per serving
Conclusion
The Ham and Cheese Omelette is more than just a quick breakfast; it’s a culinary experience that can be tailored to your preferences. By focusing on technique and using quality ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of creating this classic dish, and savor every delicious bite.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in this omelette?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Colby cheese, you can easily substitute it with cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese that melts well and complements the flavor of the ham. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Q2: Is it necessary to warm the ham before adding it to the omelette?
A: Warming the ham is not strictly necessary, but it is highly recommended. Warming the ham enhances its flavor and prevents it from cooling down the omelette when added. This simple step elevates the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this omelette?
A: Yes, you can! Vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions to this omelette. Just be sure to cook them before adding them to the omelette to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
Q4: What is the best way to prevent the omelette from sticking to the pan?
A: The key to preventing the omelette from sticking is to use a good quality non-stick pan and to ensure the pan is properly greased with butter or oil. Also, avoid using excessive heat, as this can cause the eggs to cook too quickly and stick to the pan.
Q5: Can I make this omelette ahead of time?
A: While omelettes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the ham, shred the cheese, and whisk the eggs in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator, and then assemble and cook the omelette just before serving. This will save time and effort, especially when preparing breakfast for a crowd.
