Traditional Dutch Boerenomelet (Farmer's Omelette) Recipe

Ingredients

8 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 medium-sized potatoes, diced and boiled
100 grams ham, chopped
100 grams cheese, grated
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Beat the eggs in a bowl along with the milk, salt, and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pan and sauté until they soften and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
Add the pre-boiled, diced potatoes and the chopped ham to the pan and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes.
Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed vegetables and ham in the pan, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the omelet cook gently for about 10 minutes, or until the eggs are just set.
Sprinkle the grated cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the omelet. Cover the pan again and let the omelet cook for another 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Carefully slide the omelet onto a large serving platter. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to beat the eggs and milk together.
Non-stick Frying Pan - A large frying pan with a non-stick surface for cooking the omelet.
Spatula - A kitchen utensil used for flipping and turning the omelet.
Knife - Used for chopping the onion, bell pepper, ham, and parsley.
Cutting Board - A surface to safely chop the vegetables and ham.
Grater - Used to grate the cheese.
Large Serving Platter - A plate or platter to serve the omelet on.

Recipe variations

Replace the ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a different meat option.
Add diced tomatoes or mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.
Replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a twist.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, feta, or goat cheese.
Add herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for additional seasoning.
Add spinach or kale for a healthier and greener omelet.
For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
Make it spicy by adding diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or garlic powder.
For a gluten-free option, replace the regular flour with almond flour or cornmeal.

Recipe overview

Boerenomelet, or Farmer's Omelette, is a hearty and comforting dish from the Netherlands that is perfect for any meal of the day. This recipe serves up a generously filled omelet packed with sautéed onions, bell peppers, boiled potatoes, and ham, all covered with a blanket of melted cheese. It's reminiscent of a lovely country breakfast and can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or meats. In roughly 30 minutes, you'll have a satisfying meal that's not only delectable but also packed with proteins and nutrients. Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. This is a dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

Common questions

Can I use different vegetables? Yes, you can customize the vegetables used in the omelet. Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Can I substitute the ham with another meat? Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Of course! While the recipe suggests using grated cheese, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While the omelet is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sautéed vegetables and even beat the eggs in advance. Simply assemble and cook the omelet when you're ready to serve.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this omelet? Absolutely! You can omit the ham or replace it with vegetarian bacon or sausage alternatives. You can also add more vegetables or extra herbs to enhance the flavor.
Can I refrigerate leftovers? Yes, you can refrigerate any leftover omelet in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large non-stick frying pan - A non-stick frying pan is ideal for cooking the omelet without it sticking to the surface.
Bowl - You'll need a bowl to beat the eggs and mix them with the milk, salt, and pepper.
Whisk or fork - Use a whisk or fork to beat the eggs and mix them thoroughly with the other ingredients.
Spatula - A spatula will be useful for flipping and transferring the omelet from the pan to the serving platter.
Cheese grater - If the cheese is not pre-grated, you will need a cheese grater to grate it before sprinkling it on top of the omelet.
Large serving platter - A large serving platter is needed to present and serve the omelet.
Knife - You'll need a knife to cut the omelet into wedges before serving.

Origin stories

The Boerenomelet, or Farmer's Omelet as we would call it, hails from the Netherlands. A traditional staple, it was typically whipped up by Dutch farmers using ingredients they had on hand – fresh eggs, hearty vegetables, and sometimes a bit of ham or cheese. The recipe varies from household to household, and the beauty of it is in its flexibility. This classic Dutch dish is a fine example of the Dutch proverb "Wat de boer niet kent, dat eet hij niet" which translates to "What the farmer doesn't know, he doesn't eat". This speaks to the simple, straightforward nature of Dutch cuisine where quality ingredients are the star.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.