What to Serve at Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea typically features a delightful array of savory finger sandwiches, sweet scones with clotted cream and jam, and delicate pastries, all accompanied by a selection of fine teas, providing a luxurious and enjoyable culinary experience.
A Brief History of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea, a quintessentially British tradition, originated in the 1840s. Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, complained of a “sinking feeling” in the late afternoon and began requesting a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake to be brought to her private rooms. This habit soon evolved into a social occasion, with the Duchess inviting friends to join her. The trend quickly caught on, and afternoon tea became a fashionable affair embraced by the upper classes. From private rooms to grand hotels, afternoon tea transformed into the elegant, tiered celebration it is today.
The Key Components of a Perfect Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience. Creating a memorable afternoon tea requires attention to detail and a balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements:
- Savory Sandwiches: These are typically finger sandwiches, crustless and neatly cut.
- Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam: Warm, freshly baked scones are a must.
- Pastries and Cakes: A selection of miniature pastries and cakes adds sweetness and visual appeal.
- Tea Selection: A variety of teas caters to different palates.
- Presentation: Elegant tableware, linen napkins, and floral arrangements enhance the experience.
The Art of Tea Selection
Choosing the right tea is crucial for complementing the food. Consider offering a range of options to cater to different preferences:
- English Breakfast: A strong, robust black tea, perfect for starting the tea.
- Earl Grey: A black tea flavored with bergamot, offering a citrusy aroma.
- Darjeeling: A delicate and floral black tea, known as the “Champagne of teas.”
- Green Tea: A refreshing and slightly grassy tea, often enjoyed after the meal.
- Herbal Infusions: Offer caffeine-free options like chamomile, peppermint, or rosehip.
Savory Sandwiches: A Culinary Journey
The sandwich selection should offer a variety of flavors and textures. Here are some popular fillings:
- Cucumber and Cream Cheese: A classic choice, refreshing and light.
- Smoked Salmon and Dill: A sophisticated and flavorful option.
- Egg Mayonnaise and Cress: A simple yet satisfying filling.
- Chicken and Almond: A more substantial and elegant choice.
- Roast Beef and Horseradish: A savory and robust option.
Scones: The Heart of Afternoon Tea
Scones are an essential part of afternoon tea. Serve them warm with clotted cream and jam (strawberry and raspberry are classic choices). Here’s how to ensure perfect scones:
- Use cold butter and milk to keep the dough light and flaky.
- Don’t overmix the dough, as this will make the scones tough.
- Use a sharp cutter to avoid twisting the dough, which can inhibit rising.
- Bake at a high temperature for a golden-brown crust.
Pastries and Cakes: Sweet Indulgence
The pastry selection provides an opportunity to showcase your baking skills and creativity. Consider these options:
- Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes: Light and airy sponge cakes filled with jam and cream.
- Lemon Drizzle Cake: A tangy and moist cake with a zesty glaze.
- Chocolate Éclairs: Classic French pastries filled with cream and chocolate icing.
- Macarons: Delicate almond meringue cookies in various flavors.
- Fruit Tartlets: Miniature tarts filled with pastry cream and fresh fruit.
Presentation is Key: Setting the Stage
The presentation of afternoon tea is just as important as the food itself. Use elegant tableware, linen napkins, and floral arrangements to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Serve the tea in a beautiful teapot and use tiered stands to display the sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Consider adding personal touches like handwritten menus or place cards.
Afternoon Tea: The Order of Enjoyment
There’s a certain etiquette to enjoying afternoon tea. Here’s the recommended order:
- Start with the savory sandwiches.
- Move on to the scones, spreading clotted cream and jam on each bite.
- Finish with the pastries and cakes.
Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea: Understanding the Difference
Afternoon tea and high tea are often confused, but they are distinct meals. Afternoon tea, as described above, is a lighter meal typically enjoyed in the late afternoon. High tea, on the other hand, was traditionally a more substantial meal served in the early evening, catering to the working classes who needed a hearty meal after a long day. It typically included dishes like meats, cheeses, and bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the table: Ensure there is enough space for guests to comfortably enjoy their tea.
- Serving cold scones: Scones should be served warm to be at their best.
- Using low-quality tea: Invest in good-quality tea to enhance the experience.
- Neglecting dietary requirements: Ask guests about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance.
- Forgetting the details: Pay attention to the small details, such as fresh flowers and elegant tableware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of tea should I always include in my selection?
A good starting point includes a classic English Breakfast, a fragrant Earl Grey, and a refreshing Green Tea. These cover a range of preferences and pair well with different aspects of the food. Offering a herbal option, like chamomile, is also a thoughtful touch for those avoiding caffeine.
Can I serve sparkling wine with afternoon tea?
Absolutely! A glass of Prosecco or Champagne can elevate the experience. This is sometimes referred to as a “Royal Tea” or “Celebration Tea”. Just ensure it complements the flavors of the food being served.
What’s the best way to warm scones before serving?
Gently warm them in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them rubbery. The goal is to bring them to a pleasant temperature without drying them out.
What’s the proper way to eat a scone?
Traditionally, scones are broken in half horizontally. Then, spread clotted cream on one half, followed by jam. Some people prefer jam first, but clotted cream first is the classic method.
What are some alternatives to clotted cream?
If clotted cream is unavailable, whipped cream or Devon cream can be used as substitutes. However, the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Can I offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Certainly! Substitute fillings like avocado and cucumber, hummus and roasted vegetables, or vegan cream cheese in the sandwiches. Use plant-based butter and milk when making scones and vegan-friendly pastries.
How far in advance can I prepare the sandwiches?
Ideally, sandwiches should be made fresh on the day. However, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them covered in damp paper towels and wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to prevent them from drying out.
What if I don’t have tiered stands?
No problem! You can use individual plates or platters to present the food attractively. The tiered stand adds elegance but isn’t essential.
How much tea should I prepare per person?
Allow for at least two cups of tea per person. It’s always better to have more than not enough, especially if guests are trying different varieties.
Is it okay to offer coffee instead of tea?
While afternoon tea is traditionally about tea, it’s perfectly acceptable to offer coffee as an alternative, especially for guests who prefer it.
What’s the best type of jam to serve with scones?
Strawberry and raspberry jam are classic choices, but feel free to offer a variety of options, such as blackcurrant or apricot, to cater to different tastes.
What about dietary restrictions beyond vegetarian and vegan (e.g., gluten-free)?
Gluten-free afternoon tea is becoming increasingly common. Ensure you use gluten-free flour for scones and pastries and offer gluten-free bread for sandwiches. Clearly label all items so guests can make informed choices.