For the English, the tradition of afternoon tea is a must! This tradition has endured since the 18th century and owes its existence to the Duchess of Bedford. For the English, missing this afternoon tea ritual is out of the question! But what makes "five o'clock tea" such a special tradition, and what is its history?
T.Surprise demystifies this tradition for you, a tradition deeply rooted in the customs of society and in the hearts of the English!
The history of English tea time
In the 18th century, the English were accustomed to eating a late breakfast and only one dinner. To satisfy her mid-day hunger pangs, Duchess Anne of Bedford decided to introduce another meal in the afternoon at a regular time around 5 p.m.
The Duchess used to invite her friends around a pretty table adorned with sandwiches, biscuits, pastries, scones but above all the famous English tea in order to spend good time with friends, this is how the tradition of afternoon tea was born and has never ceased to exist.
This tradition remains deeply rooted in English customs; whether among friends or family, tea time is sacred!
Preparing tea in the English style
Preparing tea properly in the English style requires following a few very simple rules!
First of all, which tea to choose? Earl Grey, of course! Black tea with bergamot or lemon tea are also among the most commonly consumed.
The tea is enjoyed with a splash of milk, a slice of lemon, and sugar, all served in pretty floral cups! To fully appreciate the taste of black tea, be sure to brew it for 3 minutes in simmering hot water at 80 degrees.
Sweet and savory recipe to accompany your tea
An English tea is never enjoyed without sweet or savory treats; here is the recipe for traditional scones that will perfectly accompany your tea time!
English scones
Scones are cakes cut in half and filled with jam/fruit jelly and clotted cream.
The ingredients
3 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of sugar
5 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup butter
1 beaten egg
1 cup of milk
1/2 cup of sugar
5 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup butter
1 beaten egg
1 cup of milk
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and butter. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a smooth dough forms.
Knead the dough for a few moments then roll out the dough into a circle ½ inch thick.
Cut into 8 wedges and place the wedges on a cookie sheet
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes at 400 degrees.
Enjoy!
And there you have it, you're all set to prepare an English-style afternoon tea! What are your traditions for drinking tea?
