National Dish Uruguay: Revuelto Gramajo (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Revuelto Gramajo, a wonderfully hearty plate that sits close to the heart of Uruguayan home cooking. It brings together crisp fried potatoes, soft scrambled eggs and savoury ham in one generous, satisfying tangle of flavour. Simple, rustic and deeply comforting, it is the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and disappears from the plate just as quickly. Bring a taste of Montevideo to your own table with this easygoing classic.
About Revuelto Gramajo
Revuelto Gramajo is a hearty and thoroughly satisfying dish that has its roots in Uruguay. It pulls together humble yet flavoursome ingredients to create a wonderful treat for the palate. Traditionally the dish is made with eggs, potatoes and ham, which makes it ideal for a filling, no-fuss meal. The combination of aromas is exactly what makes Revuelto Gramajo such a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 4 eggs
- 2 large potatoes
- 150 g ham (or bacon)
- 1 onion
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Revuelto Gramajo at its best, all the ingredients should be fresh and of good quality. Fresh eggs matter most of all, since they form the very base of the dish. Head to a local market or a wholefoods shop to pick up top-notch potatoes and ham. Don’t forget the seasonings either, as they round off the flavour and tie everything together.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, it pays to get all your ingredients ready first. The potatoes should be peeled and cut into small cubes so they cook through evenly. The onion can be sliced into fine rings to lend a gentle sweetness. Cut the ham into small pieces too, so it releases plenty of flavour as it fries.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the diced potatoes in boiling salted water for about 10 minutes, until tender.
- Heat a little olive oil or butter in a pan and fry the onions until soft and translucent.
- Add the ham or bacon and fry briefly, until lightly crisp.
- Tip in the drained potatoes and mix everything together well.
- Crack the eggs over the mixture in the pan, then stir briskly and let them set.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve piping hot.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Revuelto Gramajo is naturally gluten-free, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone with a gluten intolerance. To keep the dish lactose-free, simply use olive oil in place of butter. That way you end up with a meal that is not only lighter but also healthier, and one that everyone can enjoy. Just make sure all your ingredients, especially the ham, are lactose-free too.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of Revuelto Gramajo, swap the eggs for chickpea flour or tofu. Cook the chickpea flour with water until it takes on the consistency of scrambled eggs. Instead of ham, use vegetables such as peppers or courgette to bring colour and flavour to the dish. Scatter over some fresh herbs just before serving to lift the whole eating experience.
More tips and tricks
To make the dish even tastier, try seasoning the eggs with spices such as paprika or turmeric. Experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for extra freshness and aroma. Take care not to overcrowd the pan, so the ingredients can brown nicely rather than steam. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can be interesting too, lending the dish a distinctive little kick.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Revuelto Gramajo is extremely adaptable and easy to tailor to personal preference. You could, for example, replace the potatoes with courgette or broccoli for a lighter version. If you like a bit of heat, add some chilli flakes. By experimenting with different ingredients, anyone can put their own spin on this delicious dish.
Ingredient substitutions
If you are not keen on ham, you can use chicken or feta cheese instead. These alternatives bring different flavours to the dish that are every bit as delicious. For a vegetarian option, melting cheeses also work beautifully, developing a lovely taste as they soften. The range of possible ingredients makes it easy to discover new flavours and textures, much like the layered sweetness of Pumpkin in Syrup.
Drink pairing ideas
A variety of drinks pair nicely with Revuelto Gramajo and round off the meal. A fresh salad and a glass of white wine make an excellent combination that complements the flavours perfectly. If you’d rather stay alcohol-free, refreshing sparkling water with slices of lemon is a great choice. A fruity juice can also add a pleasant sweet note that lingers nicely on the tongue.
Serving and presentation ideas
To serve Revuelto Gramajo in style, arrange the dish on an attractive plate. Garnish it with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an appetising look. A few slices of avocado or tomato can lift the presentation even further. A well-dressed plate turns a simple meal into something of an occasion, especially alongside a colourful side such as Zucchini au Gratin.
A bit of history
Revuelto Gramajo has an intriguing backstory that is closely tied to Uruguayan cooking. The dish is said to take its name from a renowned cook called Pablo Gramajo, who popularised it in the early 1900s. It was originally prepared as humble, working-class fare, served often in simple households. Today it is a true cult classic, enjoyed in countless restaurants and homes across Uruguay and a much-loved part of Uruguayan cuisine.
More recipe ideas
- Pumpkin in Syrup
- Zucchini au Gratin
- Frittata with vegetables and cheese
- Omelette with fresh herbs
Summary: Revuelto Gramajo
Revuelto Gramajo is a fantastic dish that stands out for its variety of flavour and its straightforward preparation. With ingredients such as eggs, potatoes and ham, it offers nourishment and genuine pleasure in equal measure. Whether you make a traditional version or an adapted one, the possibilities are all but endless. Enjoy this delicious Uruguayan dish and let its aromas work their magic.
