Spanish Tapas - The Small Plate With The Big Flavour. In the beginning somewhere must Tapa literally meaning 'cover' or 'lid'. Hence the word 'tapas' was born. (It seems to depend on which area of Spain you are from!) It is said that the first tapa was simply a hunk of bread which was placed over the glass to keep the flies out.
The origins of tapas are the subject of many an argument in the local bar. Now almost all bars will charge you for anything other than maybe a bowl of olives. The Spanish generally won't drink without eating something and originally these small snacks were given free to anyone who bought a drink. Tapas is simply a small snack or appetiser taken with a drink or two at lunchtime or in the early evening before the main meal.
But what is tapas and where did it originate? Your very own little piece of tapas heaven! The setting sun is warm on your face, the air is heavy with scent and you've just found the true flavour of the real Spain. You have some extra-virgin olive oil dribbled onto your plate and a little basket of fresh crusty bread to mop it up with. (Only tourists use a fork!) There is serrano ham (jamon), some chorizo, maybe some Manchego cheese and some olives. As you are chatting and enjoying the ambience, you are both picking at a small plate of mixed tapas with your fingers. In front of you is a carafe of house wine, two glasses and your best friend. The atmosphere is buzzing - and loud! All around you, lively locals are engaged in animated conversation over their evening drinks. Imagine yourself on the terrace of an informal Spanish tapas bar.
