Tapas are one of Spain’s most well kept treasures. They are snacks, finger food that comes in very different forms, shapes and flavors. And whoever tastes some tapas, can’t go back. You can taste tapas all over Spain, since it’s part of Spanish culture and there are so many options that everybody is always pleased with them.
Meaning of tapas
The story and origin behind the tapas concept has so many theories. One of them takes us back to Alfonso X el Sabio (the wise one). He was the king of Spain many centuries ago and he decided that every glass of wine served in a tavern should be accompanied by a piece of food to eat, keeping the customers away from getting too drunk.
What’s the success of tapas? Besides they tasting so good, it’s the social component that makes them taste even better. Joining your co-workers for lunch, meeting with your friends in the weekend, having a break from class, everyone can enjoy tapas in every part of Spain and, of course, Barcelona.
These are the top Tapas in Spain:
Banderillas: cold tapas made from small food like olives, baby onions, baby cucumbers and sometimes they include anchovy.
Boquerones: white anchovies served in vinegar or fried.
Croquetas: a classic not just at bars but also at homes. They come in so many versions, ham, cheese, chicken, etc.
Patatas bravas: fried potato dices. The secret is the sauce, “salsa brava” made with spicy tomato, also it may come with mayonnaise or alioli.
Empanadillas: they are turnovers filled with all sorts of vegetables and meats.
Pulpo a la gallega: another classic all over Spain. Octopus from Galicia, cooked in boiling water and served hot in olive oil.
Pincho moruno: a stick filled with spicy meat, very tasty and easy to eat. The meat is mostly pork, chicken or lamb.
Ensaladilla rusa: this “little Russian salad” is made with mixed boiled vegetables, olives and lots of mayonnaise. Served cold.
Aceitunas rellenas: Olives filled with anchovies.
Tortilla de patatas: Who doesn’t know what a tortilla de patatas is? It’s one of Spain’s real gastronomic treasures. An omelet filled with fried chunks of potatoes. Many times you will find onion inside too.
Some of the places where you can find the best tapas in Barcelona are: Roure, La Cova Fumada, Quimet I Quimet, Tossa, Casa Jacintaor Los Toreros. There are plenty of places in Barcelona to eat true tapas, cooked specially for the occasion and at a normal price.
Tapas are part of Spain’s gastronomy and culture. The social component, the meeting before coming to have dinner at home, that make the tapas in Barcelona an element of bonding with friends and newcomers.
Dare to try as many tapas as you wish, you will definitely find the one that suits you, since there are countless options, from hot to cold, from light to heavy, spicy, overcooked. But there’s something they all have in common: they are very, very tasty and you won’t be disappointed. Do not miss the chance to go tapas in Barcelona.