French Omelet

Step 1: In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork or wire whisk until yolks and whites are well mixed.

Step 2: In an 8-inch skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat until hot and sizzling. As butter melts, tilt skillet to coat bottom with butter.

Step 3: Quickly pour the eggs into the skillet. While sliding the skillet back and forth rapidly over the heat, quickly stir the eggs with a fork to spread them continuously over the bottom of the skillet as they thicken. When they are thickened, let stand over the heat a few seconds to lightly brown the bottom. Do not overcook--the omelet will continue to cook after being folded.

Step 4: Tilt the skillet and run a spatula or fork under the edge of the omelet, then jerk the skillet sharply to loosen omelet from bottom of skillet. Add favorite filling, if desired.

Step 5: Fold the portion of the omelet nearest you just to the center. Allow for a portion of the omelet to slide up the side of the skillet. Turn the omelet onto a warm plate, flipping folded portion of omelet over so the far side is on the bottom.

Step 6: Sprinkle with salt and pepper.