The quintessentially English Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day or simply an afternoon with girlfriends. Follow these blissful guidelines for the perfect cup of tea and an afternoon of domestic delights within the hours of 3pm & 5pm (isn’t that convenient as 5pm is cocktail hour!). Photo Credit
The Afternoon Tea table should be splendidly arranged, for high glamour opt for silver service sets, white napkins and understated floral arrangements. Alternatively, bring spring to the table with an eclectic mix of floral service sets, napkins and a bright floral arrangement.
The Afternoon Tea menu should be sweet and simple with copious amounts of clotted cream, preserves, butter and the perfect homemade cakes. The traditional tea includes scones, fruitcake, crumpets, delightful biscuits (never chocolate, think light, mild and fruity, save the chocolate for when you nip into the wine later).
And don’t forget the dainty finger sandwiches. An afternoon Tea would not be complete without cucumber sandwiches (I always use a cookie cutter to make lovely shapes, it makes them taste better).
Tea is important business, the perfect pot of tea is simple to achieve:
- Always use freshly boiled water; re-boiled water will spoil the taste of the tea.
- Loose-leaf tea is best used, it has a stronger flavour and a more bolder taste.
- The best tea is served from a pot. The standard tea pot holds 4 cups, add one measure of tea for each cup being served, plus on for the pot. The final cup should be left in the pot and not served. Brew for 1 minute per cup, if using a full pot, brew for 4 minutes.
- White sugar is best served with tea; either crystallised, loose or cubed.
- Milk is always poured last.
Tea has many distinct flavours, here are a few perfect for your delightful tea party:
- Assam: A strong full-bodied tea from India, which has a distinctive, ‘malty’ flavour.
- Darjeeling: An aromatic and astringent tea from India, with a hint of almonds and wildflowers.
- Earl Grey: A blend of black teas scented with oil of bergamot named after Charles, 2nd Earl Grey, who was Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834.
- Lapsang Souchong: A Chinese tea fired over smoking pine needles, which produces a striking smoky odour and flavour.
- English Breakfast: An old favourite with a classic taste perfect for any accompaniment.
Enjoy your tea party ladies, white gloves and hats are optional, but they do make the celebration all that more special. And for those celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend, wishing you a memorable day filled with laughter and love.