According to the Real Spanish Language Academy, Tapa means; small portion of certain foods that are served as accompaniment of a drink. In function of the region where we hear it, it will be denominated in a way or another. In Navarrese and Aragon (Spain) is denominated “alifara”, in the Basquean Country (Spain) is called “poteo”.
Tapas in the History:
The “tapas” are a very characteristic element of the Spanish culture and it has become very popular in the entire world.
I)
Some people assure that the origin of the word “tapa” is because of King Alfonso X “The Wise” was forced to drink wine accompanied by small mouthfuls among hours because of an illness. After that event, the king ordered not to serve wine in the Castilian taverns if it was not accompanied by sometype of food avoiding this way the effect of the alcohol in the human body.
II)
Others think that it was in a trip to Cadiz (Spain) where King Alfonso XIII started using the term “Tapear”.
The King stopped to rest in a tavern, where he asked for a glass of wine. The waiter covered the glass with a sliced ham to avoid that sand entered in the glass.
The king liked the idea, he ate the “tapa”, he drank the glass of wine and he requested another glass again but this time, he demanded him to “cover” the drink (Cover in Spanish means “Tapa”). All the members of the Court requested the same thing.
III)
Another of the possible causes was the need of the workers to ingest some food during their workday that allowed them to continue until lunchtime.
Different kinds of “tapas” all around Spain:
In some Mediterranean countries the difference in time between breakfast and lunch makes it necessary to take in a bite, an appetizer or a “tapa”. The most popular drink to accompany a “tapa” is a wine but this also differs according to the geographic region, for example:
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In Catalunya (NorthEast) it usually accompanies with champagne
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In Castilla, with wine of Valdepeñas, wine of Rioja
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Sherry in South Spain (Andalusia)
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Cider in Asturias (North Spain)
Like with the wine, “tapas” are different depending on preferences, traditions and the region where we are at.
How to go for “tapas”?
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The “Tapeo” is to be enjoyed it with friends. Groups are usually formed with a minimum of 3 and maximum of 6 to 8 people approximately.
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The way of having “tapas” is standing up in the bar, it’s very informal.
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Traditionally it was consumed a maximum of two “tapas” in each bar. Nowadays with the extensive variety of recipes, it is usual to stay in one bar and taste all different kinds of “tapas”.
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It is usually eaten for lunch or for dinner in weekends (Saturday nights and Sunday mornings).
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The most usual time of the day to practice the “tapeo” is:
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From the time of the appetizer until lunchtime.
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From 8 in the afternoon until dinnertime.
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In many times, “tapeo” can even substitute lunch or dinner.
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It is normal that each person takes turns in inviting others.
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It is advisable to know how to combine some “tapas” with others, to avoid the mixing of so many flavors.
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As for the drinks, it’s better to request a round of wine and another round of beer.
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