But this beloved aspect of Spanish cuisine, however it’s interpreted, has a rich history rooted in tradition and practicality. The word “tapa” simply means lid in Spanish and the tradition of tapas dates back several centuries. Here’s a brief history: One story suggests that tapas began in the Middle Ages.
King Alfonso X of Castile is often credited with their invention. According to legend, he ordered that taverns serving wine should also serve small bites of food to accompany the drinks, preventing over-intoxication. This practice not only helped prevent drunkenness but also encouraged socialising.
However, the most likely explanation is that bars in Seville covered glasses with a slice of meat or cheese to keep dust and fruit flies out. The barman suddenly realised these salty covers were making people drink more, the customers thought they were getting free food, so the practice gained popularity, and these tapas or lids evolved into the small dishes we have today. By the 19th century, the concept of tapas had spread throughout Spain.
Taverns began offering a variety of small dishes, often free of charge, to accompany drinks. These could range from olives and almonds to cured ham and cheese. The 20th century saw a significant evolution.
Particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, with the rise of Spain as a popular tourist destination, tapas became more diverse and sophisticated. Chefs began experimenting with ingredients and presentation, elevating tapas to an art form..
