Trying Spanish tapas for the first time can be overwhelming because of the amazing combination of foods. However, most people who start with a little often want more.
Most people try their first Spanish tapas at a Spanish event or restaurant, so it’s often hard to tell a good tapa from a bad one. This article will explain what makes a perfect tapa and how it’s supposed to be.
What are Spanish tapas?
Spanish tapas, or tapas in general, are snacks, canapes, or small plates from Spain. However, there are different types of tapas, and they vary throughout Spain, with other towns having different takes.
The word tapa, in Spanish, means a lid or covering since it comes from the verb tapar, which means to cover. While its invention has been debated, with multiple legends claiming that it was invented in one way or another, one popular legend says it originated in the 20th century.
The story suggests that Spanish King Alfonso XIII decided to pop up at a bar while traveling in southern Spain. The place was dry and windy, and to prevent sand from entering the king’s drink, the bartender placed a slice of cured ham on top of his wine glass, which amused the king and gave birth to tapas.
This is only one of the many origin stories of the Spanish tapa.
Types of Spanish tapas
Spanish tapas include hot, cold, pintxos, tostas, tablas, and conservas. Each has different styles and is served at very different temperatures from the first two alone.
Hot tapas
Hot tapas are often made from ingredients like anchovies to eggplants, which can be fried, with other components, potentially grilled pork skewers or chorizo simmered in wine.
The ingredients can vary significantly as different places have different takes on the perfect hot tapa.
Cold tapas
Cold tapas involve a chilled selection and can include things like an ensaladilla rusa, a potato salad, or a salmorejo, a type of soup. It can also include zanahorias aliñadas or other types of chilled foods.
Cold tapas might not seem foreign initially, but they can be refreshing on a hot day.
Pintxos
Pintxos comes from the Basque Country, which substitutes the word “tapas” with this. It comes from the verb pinchar, which refers to skewer or poke, and this type of tapas often involve skewered servings on top of pieces of bread with a toothpick.
Pintxos can be cold or hot, with most locations that serve this having an option for both.
Tostas
Tostas are a type of tapa that is based on bread involving open-faced sandwiches. What makes these tapas unique is the toppings on the bread, which can include other foods like pasta.
Tostas are a type of tapa that will surprise eaters due to how well certain things go with bread.
Tablas
Tablas are a Spanish version of a selection of cheese and charcuterie boards that are easy to prepare and serve as light appetizers. This is a great way to try out prized Spanish gourmet products like jamón ibérico, which can be consumed with a glass of wine or two.
Eating small samples is a great way to enjoy Spanish tapas in a low-commitment setting. It can be eaten as a snack or appetizer so people can enjoy Spanish food without the laborious preparations.
Conservas
In other places, this food often comes from canned goods, but in Spain, they’re often taken to the next level with marinades and given the respect they deserve. This type of tapa involves preserved shellfish and other types of seafood in tins, including tuna, sardines, or even mussels.
Conservas are an overlooked form of tapas for some people. Despite them coming from canned goods, they still pack fantastic flavors.
Lastly
Perfect Spanish tapas depend on how you like them. With different people having different preferences, some might prefer a different type of tapa. This is why exploring and trying out new tapas for your favorite Spanish tapa is essential.
