Ever found yourself at a dinner party, or perhaps a fancy restaurant, and wondered what those small, elegant dishes are called? You're not alone. These tiny plates, often used for appetizers, tapas, or even dessert, have a specific name that might surprise you. They're called "mezze" or "meze" plates, a term borrowed from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
Mezze, derived from the Arabic word 'mazza', refers to a selection of small dishes served to accompany an alcoholic beverage, typically anise-flavored arak. However, the term has evolved and is now widely used to describe any small plate of food, regardless of the accompanying drink. But what are these tiny plates called in different culinary contexts?
Mezze Plates in Different Culinary Scenes
The concept of small plates is not unique to the Middle East. It has been adopted and adapted by various culinary cultures around the world. Let's explore some of these in detail.
While the term 'mezze' is most commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, other cultures have their own names for these tiny plates.
Spanish Tapas
In Spain, small plates are known as 'tapas'. The term originates from the Spanish word 'tapar', meaning 'to cover'. Legend has it that King Alfonso X of Castile would use small plates to cover his glasses of wine to keep fruit flies out, thus giving birth to the tradition of serving small plates of food alongside drinks.
Tapas can range from simple dishes like olives or almonds to more complex creations like patatas bravas (fried potato cubes with spicy tomato sauce) or gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Today, tapas have become a staple in Spanish cuisine and are enjoyed worldwide.
Italian Cicchetti
In Italy, particularly in Venice, small plates are called 'cicchetti'. These are typically served in 'bacari', traditional Venetian bars, and are usually accompanied by a glass of wine or an 'ombra', a small glass of wine served in a dimple glass.
Cicchetti can be as simple as a slice of bread with prosciutto or as elaborate as a miniature version of a traditional Venetian dish like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). They are a vital part of Venetian culinary culture and a great way to sample a variety of flavors in one sitting.
The Art of Small Plates
Small plates, whether they're called mezze, tapas, or cicchetti, offer a unique dining experience. They allow diners to sample a variety of dishes, encouraging social interaction and shared meals. This style of dining is not just about the food; it's about the experience.
For chefs, small plates present an opportunity to showcase their creativity. They can experiment with flavors, textures, and presentation in a way that might not be possible with larger dishes. Moreover, small plates allow for a more intimate connection with diners, as they can see and taste the care and attention that goes into each bite.
Small Plates in Fine Dining
In the world of fine dining, small plates are often referred to as 'amuse-bouches' or 'hors d'oeuvres'. These are small, bite-sized dishes served before the main meal to stimulate the appetite. They are typically complimentary and chosen by the chef to showcase their culinary skills and the restaurant's cuisine.
Amuse-bouches are often whimsical and visually striking, designed to surprise and delight diners. They might be served on tiny spoons, in shot glasses, or even on edible spoons made from crispbread. The goal is to create a memorable dining experience that engages all the senses.
Small Plates in Casual Dining
On the other end of the spectrum, small plates are also popular in casual dining settings. They allow diners to graze on a variety of dishes, making them perfect for sharing with friends or for trying out new flavors.
In these settings, small plates might be served on wooden boards, slate tiles, or even on the rim of a glass. The focus is on informality and fun, with dishes that are easy to pick up and eat. Think sliders, mini tacos, or tiny pizzas.
In the ever-evolving world of food, the tiny plate continues to play a big role. Whether they're called mezze, tapas, cicchetti, amuse-bouches, or hors d'oeuvres, these small dishes offer a world of culinary exploration. So next time you're out, don't be afraid to order a few. After all, variety is the spice of life, and tiny plates are the perfect way to sample it all.