Tapas and Social Eating

Tapas are little dishes of food often served in bars with a glass of sherry in the afternoon in Spain and are served as part of the social scene. They were served before lunch and dinner in bars and taverns. There are as many variations of tapas as there are cooks in Spain, or maybe more. They are generally small portions of food. Tapas in Spain are rarely eaten in lieu of a main meal, but dinner is often served after 9PM and there is a large time gap after lunch. A bit of sustenance is important.

For this book however the concept of tapas is really very much in line with the nutritional needs of the bariatric patient. This type of eating provides for the nutritional requirements as well as fulfills the need for the inclusion of delicious ingredients and flavors. It can also contribute to the social connectivity that we all require. Eating with others makes the bariatric patient less self-conscious. There is no reason to have to continue explaining why we can only eat a small amount. Our friends know and understand.

In the tapas bars the patrons line up at the bar, and call their orders to the bartender. You are immediately exposed to the aromas of garlic, olive oil, shellfish, ham, cheese, saffron, and a host of other aromas coming from a spread of hand-made pottery bowls brimming with tapas. You make your choices, and then carry your wine glass and tapas outside to the tables. You might end up with: Chickpeas and Spinach, Clams in Sherry Sauce, Octopus & Paprika, Meatballs in Almond Sauce, Fried Cheese, Quail and Onions, Dried Cod & potatoes, Sole with Raisins & Pine Nuts, and some pieces of grilled pork.

As you can see, tapas are a ready-made eating solution for the bariatric patient. The portions are small, well-seasoned, and when selected correctly can be high in protein. However, it’s not necessary to dine out when craving these bite-sized eats. Just gather some friends, whip up a pitcher of sangria, and serve some of Spain’s tastiest treats. Use tea saucers as plates, and encourage your guests to use toothpicks or their fingers when eating (as is the tradition in Spain) – no silverware necessary.