| The word tapa is now used to describe a small dish of food, served as a snack and is popular all over Spain. It is widely believed that the tapa originated in Seville and in particular in a restaurant called the Cafe de la Iberia.
It was when someone asked for a Manzanilla (a dry, white wine) with something to cover (tapar) it, the landlord served the glass with a slice of ham over the top. The ham served better than in a plate and this became a custom and finally a family business.
Spanish cuisine consists of a great variety of dishes which stem from differences in geography, culture and climate. It is heavily influenced by seafood available from the waters that surround the country, and reflects the country's deep Mediterranean roots. Spain's extensive history with many cultural influences has led to a unique cuisine with literally thousands of recipes and flavors. |
