Whether you are a foodie or just enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant, knowing where tapas originate can be very interesting. In fact, if you know the origins of this traditional Spanish dish, you can also learn more about the history and variation of tapas in Spain.
History
Throughout history, there has been some debate about the origin of tapas. Some say it originated in the countryside, while others suggest it was invented by a king in the 13th century. However, there are many other legends about the origin of the ‘tapa’.
A tapa is a small plate of food that is served with alcohol. It can be hot or cold. Typically, it’s served with wine. It can also be served with a variety of other ingredients, from cheese to olives. It’s a common social activity.
In the Middle Ages, farmers and workers would often consume small bites of food throughout the day. This would keep them energized during the long, hot mornings. In addition, it would keep them from getting too tired at night.
A popular tapa in the South was gazpacho. It was a popular summer dish in Andalucia. It was also one of the first tapas to make its way north with the Andalusian emigrants.
Another popular tapa was the sherry drink. Inn keepers in Spain used a saucer to cover their sherry, because they wanted to keep the flies out. A lid was normally made of ham or chorizo. The sherry drink also had a small side dish. This was to a) keep the fruit flies out and b) to activate thirst.
The oldest story about the origin of tapas suggests that it was invented in the 13th century, but it is not known for certain. It may have been invented as a means to keep flies out of wine, or it may have been invented by a king who wanted to discourage unruly subjects from drinking wine without food.
Origins in the Middle-Ages
During the Middle Ages, Europeans ate quick, easy, and cheap foods as they worked. A light meal at night helped workers stay awake and lessen their drowsiness.
The earliest form of tapas was served in Spain. They were small bites of food served alongside a glass of wine. These tapas were often made from ham or cheese.
In Spain, the first tapas were served at bodegas, which were taverns. These taverns served drinks with a slice of ham or cheese. A piece of bread was also used to prevent wine dust from falling into the glass.
As time went on, tapas began to be served at restaurants. In addition to cheese, olives, and ham, tapas are often served with mushrooms, cured meat pastries, and fresh Mediterranean ingredients. They are often served on a platter or a plate.
In the Middle Ages, there was a decree that wine must be served with food in Castile. This allowed workers to stay awake while they worked, and gave them the energy to finish their day’s work. The drink also helped to soothe an empty stomach.
King Alfonso X “the Wise” was a medieval king of Castile and Leon (1221-1284). He was sick and required a light meal to counter the effects of alcohol on an empty stomach. In order to stay strong and healthy, Alfonso ate small bites of food with wine, or tapas, between meals.
Tapas are still a small portion of the Spanish diet. While they may not be as large as the olden days, the concept has evolved into a popular tradition that is found all over Spain.
Today, the origins of tapas are a little less mysterious. Some say the idea originated from a need for farmers to take a siesta after a heavy meal.
Variations throughout Spain
Various regions of Spain have their own special tapas. These variations are perfect for sharing with friends. These are small dishes served to people at restaurants and bars. They may be hot or cold. They are usually served with drink.
Spanish Tapas usually involve small dishes with different flavors and textures. This is a popular way of sharing food with people. Most tapas are served with drinks and are usually served with chips. Tapas are also served with desserts. Some common desserts include natillas, arroz con leche, and flan.
The Spanish omelet is one of the favorite appetizers in Spain. It is served with olive oil and garlic. The national dish of Spain is Tortilla Espanola, which is an omelet made with potatoes.
Another typical Spanish tapa is fried anchovies. These are served with olive oil, garlic, and salt. These can also be served on their own. These are also served with bread and cheese.
Another popular tapa is calamares a la plancha, which are squid grilled. The seafood is straight from the Bay of Biscay. These are paired with a spicy sauce. This is a typical Spanish tapa in summer.
Other Spanish tapas include croquetas, which are fried balls of goodness. The traditional croqueterias have chunks of jamon inside. Some modern varieties are filled with mushrooms, spinach, or fish.
Spanish oliva, or olives, are also a popular tapa. These are stuffed with anchovies and pepper. They are served without dressing. These are also referred to as aceitunas. They come in Latin and Spanish.
Tapas are usually served at bars and restaurants. Some are free. Most restaurants have a menu where you can choose from a variety of dishes. These tapas are typically served around 9pm. It is a great way to try many different dishes without ordering an entire meal.
Dishes served with alcoholic drinks
Traditionally, a tapa is a small dish served alongside an alcoholic drink. Tapas are often served cold and savoury, but they can also be served hot. The size of the dish varies depending on the type of drink.
Tapas were first served in taverns in Spain. This style of food service was born out of the food scarcity that was a result of the Spanish Civil War. The farmers needed to eat smaller portions of food so they could work in the fields. It also allowed for people to socialize while they ate, rather than have to eat a meal that was heavy and filling.
It is believed that the king Alfonso X of Castile ordered tavern owners to serve food with wine. This allowed him to recover from illness by drinking wine between meals. The king also ordered that taverns serve only wine with a “tapa”–a small dish.
Tapas may be served warm in certain regions of Spain. Tapas are a staple of the cuisine in Spain. Popular tapas include gambas al ajillo, croquetas, paella and stuffed peppers.
Tapas are traditionally served with a glass of sherry, a red wine or a draught beer. Spanish bars will often offer free tapas with a drink. Some bars also offer a shot of orujo. Alternatively, you can order a soft drink or water.
Tapas are an authentic Andalusian tradition. They have spread throughout the world. Tapas are a great way to spend an evening. Many bars in Spain have their own signature tapas.
You can make your own tapas at home, if you have the ingredients. These dishes are easy to make. The classic dish is a combination of chorizo, olives and bread. You can also make a tortilla espanola, which is a Spanish omelette.
Throwing tapas to the floor
Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer or a filling meal, tapas are an excellent option. Tapas are typically served with wine, and are a popular way to enjoy the culture of Spain. These bite sized foods can also be enjoyed by individuals or groups.
There are many different legends about where tapas originated. Some people believe they were invented to keep out flies. Others believe it was to cover up a bad wine smell. Regardless of the origin, tapas are becoming more and more popular worldwide.
The first recorded tapas story is attributed to King Alfonso X of Castile. The king was ill and needed a quick snack. To avoid getting too drunk, he ate a small amount of food and drink. This allowed him to recover more quickly.
Throughout the Middle Ages, workers in Spain would eat quick, easy and inexpensive foods. They would also take short breaks to eat a snack and drink. The lower class workers would spend their salaries on alcohol. Having a snack and drink in a tavern would also be a great way to increase their thirst.
In the 16th century, the Spanish government passed a law requiring innkeepers to serve small dishes with drinks. This helped keep people from getting drunk on the streets.
Some historians believe that tapas originated in the fields. They believe that field workers would take small meals with wine throughout the day. These dishes were often covered with cheese, bread or ham to keep the wine from being dirty. These dishes also prevented flies from swimming in the wine.
Today, tapas are served in bars throughout Spain. The best tapas cities include Madrid, Granada, Bilbao, Salamanca, San Sebastian, and Valladolid.
