Ruben 'can't be bothered' The Classic French Omelette

Dear Ruben, what’s your favourite “I’m exhausted and can’t be bothered” easy meal?

A recipe I always have up my sleeve when I really can't be bothered is the classic French omelette.I prepare it for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, and I believe it is the perfect recipe for busy families as kids absolutely love it —  trust me! — and it takes just five minutes to make.

Now, the fact that I'm talking about this recipe as an easy and fast solution for you when you are exhausted after a long day, doesn't mean that it is not technical. In fact, it used to be the ‘chef's test’ in many kitchens when you went for a job interview or trial in many restaurants (no pressure ).

Traditionally, in France, this recipe has just three ingredients: good quality eggs, salt and butter. Now. I must admit that I don't eat butter and obviously I'm not French, but I was trained in French cooking!

Important! For a dairy-free option please use extra virgin olive oil.

Steps to follow:

1. Start by grabbing two bowls.

2. Crack one egg in a bowl. Check that there are no small pieces of shell or blood dots and pass it to the second bowl. Repeat the operation twice more, ending with three whole eggs in the second bowl. Why do we use two bowls? Because if you crack the three eggs in the same bowl and one of them is not okay, it will ruin the whole lot. Tip: if for whatever reason you end up with small bits of shell in the bowl, scoop it out using one of the half eggshells — don't use your fingers.

3. Using a fork, whisk the three eggs very well. Add seasoning.

4. Turn the stove on and place a non-stick pan (yes! It MUST BE a non-stick pan).

5. Use your chosen type of fat, either butter or olive oil and add the whisked eggs to the pan.

6. Adjust the heat on the pan. You'll see the egg starting to set.

7. Now, for the non-traditional but delicious finish add some pieces of cheese in the middle.

8. This is the time to use a spatula and fold your omelette to the middle, and then fold it again to the other end.

9. Finely chop some herbs like chives, or parsley, dill, et cetera, and add them on top if you like.

10. Put a piece of bread in the toaster.

11. Serve the cheesy omelette on top of the toasted bread. Add a green salad on the side for a healthy, light and quick meal.

Note: the options for filling and flavours are endless, so be creative and enjoy. The more French omelettes you make, the more confident you'll feel. I promise!

What result am I looking for? Personally, I'm in search of a delicious, fluffy and well seasoned omelette. One that, when you cut it with a knife you have all the stretchy, warm and awesome cheese - with a hint of your desired herbs and even a bit of chilli salt (why not?) 

But remember, whatever you do, you'll see how this easy and economical recipe will save you more than one meal per week. 

Enjoy!