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An Overview of the Tapas Tradition

In Spain, people head to bars or taverns after work and eat tapas before dinner is served between 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. While Spaniards do little to no entertaining at home, bars serve as a place for them to relax, meet friends, watch television, eat and have a drink. Tapas are so much a part of the Spanish culture that the locals actually invented the word “tapear” which means “go and eat tapas!”

What are Tapas?Tapas are appetizer-sized dishes that originated in Spain; they vary

according to the taste and gastronomic traditions of each region. These dishes have traditionally included various olives, meats and cheeses served with a drink (i.e., sherry or Spanish wine). However, in modern times, tapas has evolved into a wide variety of different hot and cold small-plate dishes with influences from all over the world. Enjoying tapas is not just about the food, but the “tapeo” or overall dining experience – a time when friends and family gather together to take pleasure in flavorful food and wine and casual conversation.

Where did Tapas Originate?Tapas is said to have started in Andalusia, in the Southern part of Spain.

The first tapas dishes were thought to be pieces of bread or slices of cheese or ham that were given to tavern patrons when they ordered sherry. These food items were used to “cover” their drink and protect it from the flies, sand or dust. The word “tapa” means “lid” or “cover” in Spanish. Many patrons would of course eat their “top” after finishing their drink.

Another theory is that tapas-style eating became popular in the thirteenth century during the ruling of Spanish King, Alfonso X, who ruled Castile and León. Rumor has it that the King created “small-plate dining” when he fell ill and was only able to drink his wine with small bites of food. When he was better, he proclaimed that these small plate dishes saved his health, and issued a royal decree that all taverns serve tapas with their wine.

While speculation on the true origins of tapas remains, there is no doubt that through Spain’s history a wonderful tradition was born.

How has the Tapas Tradition Evolved?Although tapas cuisine originated in Spain, it has been influenced by the

multiple cultures that have left their mark on its history. In fact, many tapas dishes have been influenced by Moorish, Greek, Roman, Celtic and Moroccan cultures. This is evident in the use of exotic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, caraway and saffron, and delectable fruits such as dates and figs that are used in so many tapas recipes. Further, the discovery of the New World brought the introduction of hallmark ingredients used in modern times: tomatoes, sweet peppers, potatoes and corn, or maize, all of which are grown successfully in Spain today.

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History of Tapas/Page 2

Tapas is an approach to food and dining that is celebrated all over the world. Chefs have embraced this cuisine and infused it with their personal expression, creativity, experimentation and innovation. For patrons, tapas offers a taste of tradition coupled with an sense of adventure. While the history of tapas is rich and grounded in simple customs, it has changed dining forever.

For tapas recipes and entertaining tips, visit www.oliveoilfromspain.com.

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