What Is Tapas? Discover a Spanish Culinary Journey from Marbella to Hoi An

I. What Is Tapas? The Origins and Cultural Identity of Spain

Emerging as early as the 13th century, Tapas, referring to small appetisers and side dishes, has long been regarded as the soul of Spanish culinary culture. The story is said to have begun with a royal decree issued by King Alfonso X of Castile, who once had to consume very small meals alongside wine while recovering his health. Recognising the benefits of this way of eating, he decreed that taverns should serve food whenever guests ordered drinks.

In the beginning, these accompanying bites were simply a slice of bread or a thin piece of meat, carefully placed over the rim of a glass to protect the drink from dust and insects. Over time, this simple everyday habit evolved into a highly creative culinary tradition, with each region of Spain adding its own local ingredients, character, and distinctive flavours.

Ultimately, Tapas is a collective term for small bites and light dishes in Spanish cuisine. Chefs are free to create and experiment with these dishes without being restricted by any single fixed recipe.

Popular Types of Tapas

• Cosas de Picar (Small Bites): This name comes from the Spanish verb "picar", meaning "to nibble" or "to eat little by little". These are among the simplest and most casual types of Tapas, which Vietnamese diners might associate with snacks enjoyed alongside a cold beer. No chopsticks or spoons are needed. Guests can simply use their hands or small toothpicks to enjoy juicy cured olives, salted roasted nuts, or thinly sliced Manchego cheese.

 

• Pinchos / Pintxos (Skewered Bites on Bread): This category typically features a crisp slice of toasted baguette as a base, topped with a variety of ingredients such as seafood, roasted bell peppers, miniature fried eggs, or chorizo sausage, before being secured with a small wooden toothpick known as a pincho.

 

• Cazuelas (Dishes Served in Earthenware): These are warm Tapas dishes that are served with sauces and prepared using more elaborate cooking techniques. Popular examples include sizzling garlic prawns (Gambas al Ajillo), crispy fried calamari (Calamares), and spicy fried potatoes (Patatas Bravas).

Minimalist Cooking to Honour Natural Flavours

The preparation of Tapas perfectly reflects the free spirited yet refined lifestyle of Mediterranean people. Most Tapas dishes avoid overly complicated cooking techniques or heavy sauces that could overpower the original flavours of the ingredients.

A Culture of Connection and Community

For the people of Spain, enjoying Tapas is a deeply social experience. At the heart of this culinary culture is the spirit of sharing, where people gather together, take their time to chat, and savour each moment in one another's company. This simple and warm tradition bears a striking resemblance to the Vietnamese habit of gathering around a shared family meal.

II. An Exclusive Guestshift Night: A Culinary Cultural Exchange at LAM Kitchen

When Spanish Flavours Meet the Local Ingredients of Hoi An

Following the flow of cultural exchange, the menu for the upcoming evening will be personally prepared by guest chef Mr. Pedro, drawing inspiration from the soul of Spanish cuisine. Embracing the spirit of Tapas-style dining, the evening will also feature impressive Signature Paella presentations, offering guests a memorable culinary performance.

A Unique Collaboration in the Culinary World

The evening marks a one of a kind collaboration between guest chef Mr. Pedro, Head Bartender Dũng Nguyễn from ÚNU Eatery, and LAM Kitchen. The participation of partners such as SeedEats and Iberico not only brings iconic delicacies such as Iberico cured ham closer to diners, but also positions the event as a memorable cultural and culinary experience, creating a seamless connection between Western traditions and the distinctive slow living spirit of Hoi An.

Detailed Information About the "From Marbella to Hoi An" Event

To join this limited culinary journey, please refer to the details below and plan your schedule accordingly:
 

Conclusion

FAQs

1. Is Tapas a specific dish or a general term?

2. What is the most distinctive aspect of enjoying Tapas?

3. What makes the "From Marbella to Hoi An" Guestshift event at LAM Kitchen different from a regular dining experience?

4. Do I need to make a reservation before attending the Guestshift event?

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