The thought of Spanish Foods

What typically came to mind at the thought of Spanish food was Spanish rice. Foods that are colorful, a little zesty, complimented with hot peppers, beans, chicken, and wrapped up in a tortilla. I've always believed that food from Spain was at least a little similar to the taste of Mexico--tacos, enchiladas, tomales, burritos, etc. However, I was far off in my assumption despite that fact that the spanish rice dish was named Spanish.  I was also expecting something very exotic and fancy, and mucho seafood after watching TV specials about foreign countries on the Food Network. In my actual experience in Spain so far, my expectations of what I'd be eating varied a lot from what I consumed. I am still not able to pinpoint or define what Spanish food is because I am still learning and trying new things, but I have discovered a couple themes. For one, I thought most of the foods were very bland. As a person who enjoys the seasoning and spices of foods, I had to add mucho salt and pepper to some of my dishes, including la tortilla, el bistec, and various pastas. I also found many of the foods to be American-like or universal like spaghetti and hamburgers. Perhaps the most unique food I ate was jamon--a different kind of ham made from cured pig--and as raw as it looks, it isn't half bad. I am still waiting on the seafood though, but I'm sure it's great. So what's so special about Spanish food? I personally think it's the culture. Just these last few days I learned so much about Spanish food, how it is prepared, how/when it is eaten, and more. A few things that I recall when dining in Spain is that there is sobremesa (table talk that occurs after you finish a meal), no tipping, sharing of las tapas, and a big lunch right before siesta. I know I didn't exactly answer the question of what Spanish food is, so to sum it up here's what I think. Spanish food is not to be confused with Mexican. It is very meaty but also healthy. It has a variety but is unique to its culture.

Las tapas

What now comes to mind 

Sidenote: tomorrow is the last day of the practicum, which saddens me. After trying many delicious tapas, I'm hoping that some dessert can be our next treat :)