Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is an event that is now known around the world. However, it is important to understand the history of afternoon tea and its origins, in order to understand its true significance.
The History
The 7th Duchess of Bedford, Anna, asked her butler to bring her some tea one day, and she soon made it a habit. She even began inviting her friends to join her in the sitting room for this event. Tea eventually became more affordable, and the middle class was able to join in on this ritual as well. When this occurred, afternoon tea quickly became an activity known to all.
The act of afternoon tea is a most well known and respected tradition in the United Kingdom, and it is known as a light meal that is typically eaten at around 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Traditionally only loose tea would be served, in a teapot with milk and sugar. However, over time things have changed, and now sandwiches often accompany the tea, and there are many different flavors of tea offered as well.
High Tea
There is a difference between afternoon tea and high tea. High tea is known as an early evening meal, and so rather than taking place around 4 o’clock, it generally occurs between the later hours of 5 and 6 o’clock. This meal typically consists of cold meats, eggs, cakes and sandwiches, and it is more formal than its counterpart.
Tea
When it comes to what tea should be used, you actually have quite a few different options. Typically the host makes her own tea, and the best way to make your own is by using an electric kettle to boil the water. This is because the water is actually boiling when you pour it over the tea, and this helps to extract most of the flavor from the tea. It will also effectively reduce the time it will take you to actually brew the tea.
Remember that the longer you brew tea, the more the bitter tasting tannin will be dissolved, and thus the sweeter the tea will end up tasting. You will also get better results if you use loose tea in a teapot, rather than teabags, because loose tea is not as finely ground as the tea you find in teabags. Keep in mind that if you do use loose tea, you will need to use a tea strainer to avoid getting any tea leaves in your cup. Tea is a delicious beverage that is enjoyed around the world in many cultures. Try a steaming cup today.
Written By The Tea Lady
The Tea Lady carefully tends to The Official Website for Tea and sends an occasional Tea Newsletter to ardent and casual tea lovers around the world.
