Malaga's gastronomy is categorized as part of Andalusia's gastronomy and, therefore has been influenced by the cuisine of all the Mediterranean peoples such as the salted meats or fish of the Romans and Phoenicians, Arabic pastries made with honey, nuts and dried fruit and Castilian cooking techniques.
Being a land located between the sea and the mountains, it offers a wide range of possibilities thanks to the diversity of its home-grown produce, such as fish, mainly because it is a coastal province, the typical meats produced in the mountainous regions and the vegetables grown in the Malaga lowlands.
Therefore, "tapas" are an easy and very tasty way to enjoy a broad variety of food in Malaga, but in small quantities that delight the five senses. It has become another way of eating out. Tasting bits of each cuisine and mixing ingredients in small portions is one of the best options and Malaga is one of the best cities to experience this.
International "tapas" that offer new flavours, Mediterranean "tapas" with traditional products, surprising creations of contrasting flavours or the popular bite-sized portion of Spanish omelette are just a sample of some of the "tapas" that can be discovered in the many restaurants of the city.
Although the exact origin of "tapas" is unknown, some say they date from the Middle Ages, when they were used to reduce the effects of alcohol. Another popular version says that "tapas" were born of the need of workers to eat some food between meals, to tide them over until lunch time.
Therefore, whether it is true or not, there are many legends about this very Spanish appetizer, which has become a symbol of national identity, even though each community has added its distinctive touch. There is no doubt that "tapas" are part of the tradition, and like many others, this tradition has lasted for many years.
In many cases, "tapas" have even become a means of innovation of many well-known chefs.
We mention innovation and renewal, but we also have to mention tradition. The diet of Malaga offers an endless number of dishes, such as "ajoblanco" (cold soup made with garlic, almonds and olive oil), "porra antequerana" (similar to the "gazpacho" but thicker), Malaga's salad (potatoes, cod, orange and olives), "gazpacho" (cold fresh tomato-based soup), fried fish… and let's not forget its typical products, such as wine and oil, pillars of Mediterranean culture which are the foundation of a diet considered the healthiest in the world.
For more information visit “Granma Recipes”
