estebantapas

return to www.larklane.com/esteban

Tapas, the little dishes of Spain and the Mediterranean, are never ending feast and an integral part of the Spanish lifestyfe. For the gregarious Spaniards, meeting in tapas bars before lunch or dinner is a favourite pastime and a wonderful way for visitors to experience the warm and friendly spirit of Spain. The British are also embracing tapas as a way to meet friends and family for a good time while also enjoying the wonderful flavours of the Mediterranean. Ingredients like peppers, olive oil, garlic, cheese and fish are staple foods of Spanish dining and also conducive to a healthy lifestyle. Although many beverages are appropriate with tapas, fino and sherry are their original accompaniment. The tradition of tapas can be traced back  to the Andalusian sherry region of Spain, where a small piece of bread was placed over the glass to keep out dust and flies but soon evolved into delicious bite-sized treats. Tapas include many regional styles, served in small portions that are easy and quick to eat such as olives and cheeses, salmon and shellfish, marinated skewered meats, potato omelettes, chorizo sausage and mountain cured ham.

Tapas can be just about anything in small portions, from the simplest to the

 most elaborate, depending on the chefs imagination.