Some History About Spanish Tapas
As any serious diner knows, the United States is rife with many different types of cuisine. Whether you feel like Mexican, Italian, German, Thai or Chinese, your taste can be satisfied by a local venue. One of the ethnic foods growing in popularity are the small plates known as Spanish Tapas. Compared to some other types of food, their beginnings are not as well known.
The Beginnings Are Traced to a Spanish King
Many Americans are not exactly sure what tapas are – or how they got their start. Simply put, tapas are small plates of food served between meals often with alcohol. Tapas originated in Spain, where the story goes, King Alfonso 10th was stricken with a serious illness. While sick, he was only allowed to take in small portions of food with small amounts of wine. After recovering, the king issued a decree stating no wine be served unless it was accompanied with food.
There are other historians who believe tapas originated with farmers and field workers. They took in small meals with wine throughout the day to provide needed energy between meals. But no matter the true origin, tapas are an ideal way to sample the flavors and rich culture of Spain.
Tapas are rarely served without alcohol in Spain. They are not meant to be a full meal, but a delicious repast in between. Tapas are small plates of food to be consumed with alcohol at a drinking establishment. They can literally be any type of food – from nuts, olives, and assorted meats or cheeses – so long as it is served on a small plate with alcohol. The most important part of having tapas is the gathering of people to socialize.
If you are in the Chicago area, visit Tapas Valencia Spanish Restaurant for the most delicious tapas in the city. Located on State Street, “Chicago’s Taste of Spain” is easy to find. Visit their website or call 312-842-4444 for more information on this unique dining experience.