Round Town: Local News Benidorm, Alfaz, Altea.

The origin of the word ‘tapas’ comes from the verb ‘Tapar’ which means ‘to cover’ and there are various versions on how they came about but perhaps the most popular (and credible) is the one that tells us that the first tapas were created to cover the glass of wine to avoid insects getting in.

Another version of the tapas story comes from the time of Alfonso X when following an illness the King was ordered to eat small quantities of food with a sip of wine. Thereafter, he apparently instructed all bars to serve something to eat with alcohol thus avoiding potential stomach problems or indigestion as a result of consuming too much wine on an empty stomach.

Yet another version says that the tapas tradition has its roots in nineteenth century Spain and allegedly developed as a result of the Spanish enjoyment of sherry. To avoid rapid inebriation from this strong aperitif, it became common to serve the drink with a piece of cured ham or bread covering the mouth of the glass.

But whichever your preferred version of their origin the fact remains that Tapas are as Spanish as sangria and the point is that you drink, you talk, you nibble and in a perfect world, you’d do so ad infinitum…..! So if you’ve not yet discovered the delights of dining using your fingers only, then head for the old town and the heart of Benidorm’s very own Tapas Alley, then try these summer tapas recipes for yourself at home and impress your friends!

Will you try an authentic tapas here in Benidorm? Press here to read more.

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