How to Make a Basic Omelet

Omelets, made in the French style, are actually fairly easy to make. It can be a little tricky at first, since the process goes very quickly, but a few tries are really all it takes. Serves one.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 2 eggs
• butter for the pan
• dash black pepper
• 1/8 tsp. salt
• 1 tbsp. water
• Groceries
• Wire whisk
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Omelet pans
• Forks

1. 

   Combine eggs, water, salt and pepper in a medium-sized bowl. Beat with a fork until combined but not too frothy.

2. 

   Melt a little butter (1 or 2 tsp.) over medium-high to high heat.

3. 

   When the butter stops foaming, pour the egg mixture into the skillet, and without moving the skillet, allow the eggs to set on the bottom (this should only take a few seconds).

4. 

   As eggs set, take a spatula and push the edges of the egg mixture in, allowing the uncooked eggs on top to flow underneath and make direct contact with the skillet. Repeat the procedure at various spots around the edge of the setting egg mixture.

5. When eggs are set but still shiny, remove the omelette from the heat. The whole process should take just 2 or 3 minutes.

6. Fold the omelet in half and slide it onto a warm plate.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice with plain omelets before you try filling them.

• Omelets are really an individual dish. Make separate omelets for each person (since they only take a few minutes, this is not an overwhelming obstacle). If you want to serve a lot of people, make a scramble instead.

• To make a low-fat omelet, prepare using one whole egg and two egg whites, instead of two whole eggs.

• If you do fill the omelet, place a few tablespoons of filling on one half of the omelet right before it's done, then fold over and slide onto a plate. Don't put too much inside; it gets difficult to fold the omelet over. You can always put more filling on top of the omelet. Try filling your omelet with cooked fresh mushrooms, grated cheese or even fruit and yogurt. Experiment and have fun!

• Try omelets for a light dinner, with some salad and a glass of wine - that's what the French do!