Some of my favorite tapas that I've tried include beef stew, bread with goat cheese and salmon and bread with squid on top.
My first tapa was bread topped with goat cheese and smoked salmon. I was really nervous, but as soon as I took my first bite, I fell in love with this form of food. Not only was that dish delicious, but it made me excited to order more tapas. I love the idea of tapas because you can order multiple small dishes rather than just having to eat one dish at lunch or dinner.
Different tapas are prepared in different ways. Many tapas are prepared with small pieces of bread topped with items like fish, cured meat and/or cheese. Other tapas include mini meat and fish dishes and paella. One of the most popular tapas is called patatas bravas. This dish is made by cutting up white potatoes into wedge-like slices or cubes. The potatoes are first boiled to make them tender, then deep fried in oil. Some tapas bars serve them crispy, while others serve them moist. The potatoes are served warm and topped with two different types of sauces: a spicy potato sauce and a garlic aioli cream sauce.
Spain's location and history have a major influence over traditional foods. The Greeks and the Moors (Muslims from North Africa) have both attempted to take control of Spain. Olives, oil, and wine are tied with Greek influence and honey, almonds, citrus fruits, and spices are tied with Moorish influence.
