The Perfect Afternoon Tea: A Quintessential British Tradition

There's something utterly delightful about indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. This quintessential British ritual is more than just a meal; it's an experience steeped in history and elegance. 

Whether you're hosting a sophisticated gathering or simply treating yourself, here's how to create the perfect afternoon tea. 

My wife and I were able to enjoy a very special afternoon tea at the justifiably famous Brown's Hotel in London several years ago. It's now £75 per guest, in the Browns Hotel Drawing Room.

The History of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is credited to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, in the early 19th century. With dinner served fashionably late, she found herself peckish in the long afternoon hours and requested a tray of tea, bread, and butter to be brought to her room. This practice quickly became a social event, inviting friends to join her, and thus, the tradition of afternoon tea was born.

Setting the Scene

Creating the perfect afternoon tea begins with the setting. Aim for a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere. A well-laid table with a crisp linen tablecloth, fine china, and polished silverware sets the tone. Fresh flowers in a vase and soft background music can enhance the experience.

The Tea

The star of the show is, of course, the tea. Choose a variety of high-quality loose-leaf teas to cater to different tastes. Classic options include:

Earl Grey: A fragrant black tea with hints of bergamot.

Darjeeling: Often referred to as the "champagne of teas," this has a delicate and musky-sweet flavour.

Assam: A robust tea with a malty flavour, perfect for those who prefer a stronger brew.

Provide milk, sugar, and lemon slices so guests can personalise their tea. Ensure you have an elegant teapot, a strainer, and a selection of fine china teacups and saucers.

The Food

An afternoon tea menu typically comprises three main elements: sandwiches, scones, and cakes or pastries.

Sandwiches

Light and delicate, the sandwiches should be crustless and cut into neat fingers or triangles. Traditional fillings include:

Cucumber and cream cheese

Smoked salmon and dill

Egg and cress

Ham and mustard

Scones

Freshly baked scones are the highlight of any afternoon tea. Serve them warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam. The debate between whether to spread the jam or cream first can spark lively conversation, but the choice is ultimately yours.

Cakes and Pastries

A selection of sweet treats adds a touch of indulgence. Consider including:

Victoria sponge cake

Lemon drizzle cake

Battenberg cake

Macarons

Fruit tarts

Etiquette

Afternoon tea comes with its own set of etiquettes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Sipping Tea: Hold the teacup by the handle and sip gently. Avoid clinking the cup against the saucer.

Using Cutlery: Use your knife to spread the cream and jam on your scones. Sandwiches and pastries are generally eaten with your fingers.

Conversation: Keep the conversation light and pleasant. Afternoon tea is a time for relaxation and enjoyment.

Conclusion

The perfect afternoon tea is a blend of tradition, elegance, and delightful flavours. Whether enjoyed in the company of friends or as a solitary indulgence, it’s a moment to savour. With the right preparation and a touch of finesse, you can recreate this timeless British tradition in your own home. 

So, put the kettle on, lay out your best china, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfect afternoon tea.

Celebrating International Tea Day: A Global Toast to Tradition and Togetherness

Tea, which the world's most consumed beverage after water, holds a special place in the hearts and homes of millions. 

From the rolling tea estates of India and Sri Lanka to the quaint tea rooms of England, this humble leaf has woven its way into the fabric of countless cultures. It is only fitting that such a universally cherished drink has its own day of celebration: International Tea Day.

Observed on the 21st of May, International Tea Day is more than just an excuse to enjoy a good brew. It is a day dedicated to the recognition of tea's economic, cultural, and social significance. 

This celebration, endorsed by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness of the long history and deep cultural roots of tea, as well as the critical role it plays in sustainable development and poverty alleviation.

The Origins of International Tea Day

International Tea Day was first celebrated in 2005 in tea-producing countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Uganda, and Tanzania. The day was established to draw global attention to the impact of the global tea trade on workers and growers, and to ensure that tea production continues to contribute positively to the economies of these countries.

In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to observe International Tea Day on the 21st of May each year. This date was chosen to coincide with the season of tea production in most tea-growing countries.

The Cultural Significance of Tea

Tea is not just a drink; it is a cultural experience. The Japanese have their intricate tea ceremonies, the Chinese their gongfu tea, and the British their beloved afternoon tea. Each tradition highlights the central role that tea plays in bringing people together, fostering connections, and creating moments of reflection and relaxation.

In the UK, tea is often considered a comforting ritual. The classic "cuppa" is more than a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality, a moment of pause in a busy day, and often, a solution to life's problems. The famous British afternoon tea, complete with delicate sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and an assortment of pastries, is a time-honoured tradition that continues to delight. And a cup of strong, sweet tea is often regarded as an emergency pick-me-up in the UK.

The Economic Impact of Tea

The global tea industry supports the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. It is a major export commodity for several countries and plays a crucial role in rural economies. Tea production is labour-intensive, providing employment to a significant number of people in tea-growing regions, including women, who make up the majority of the workforce in many of these areas.

However, the industry also faces numerous challenges. Climate change, fluctuating market prices, and the need for sustainable farming practices are critical issues that need addressing. International Tea Day serves as a platform to advocate for better working conditions, fair trade practices, and sustainable development in the tea sector.

How to Celebrate International Tea Day

Celebrating International Tea Day can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Host a Tea Party: Gather friends and family for an afternoon tea party. Serve a variety of teas, from classic black and green teas to herbal infusions, along with an assortment of finger foods.

Explore Global Teas: Take a journey around the world through your teacup. Try teas from different countries and regions, and learn about their unique brewing methods and traditions.

Support Sustainable Brands: Purchase tea from brands that are committed to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and Organic.

Learn About Tea: Dive into the history and science of tea. Read books, watch documentaries, or even take a tea-tasting class to deepen your appreciation for this remarkable beverage.

Visit a Tea Plantation: If possible, visit a tea plantation to see firsthand how tea is grown and processed. This can provide a greater understanding of the hard work that goes into every cup.

International Tea Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and appreciate one of the world's most beloved beverages. It is a time to honour the traditions that surround tea, acknowledge the hard work of those who produce it, and commit to sustainable practices that will ensure its future. So, on the 21st of May, raise your cup and join the global community in celebrating the remarkable world of tea. Cheers!

https://www.tea.co.uk/

Indulge your loved one and yourself in a Valentine's Afternoon Tea at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve are offering a Valentines Afternoon Tea, running from 10th to 17th February to take the pressure out of having to go out on the one night, and also offers more of an experience/day out.

Book here: https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/restaurants/valentines-day-afternoon-tea

What better way to indulge your loved one over the Valentines period, than with a lusciously refined afternoon tea in the grand environment of Port Lympne’s mansion, bathed in a glow from a crackling log fire?

Settle down to enjoy this quintessential British classic in the historic surroundings of one of England’s finest Grade II listed country houses, once a favourite retreat for royalty, aristocracy, prominent politicians, authors and playwrights.

The hotel’s masterful pastry chef has designed an utterly delectable menu, featuring savoury delights including egg mayonnaise and spring onion and smoked salmon, lemon and caper butter sandwiches, salt beef, dijon mustard mayonnaise brioche roll, accompanied with sweet romance themed sensations such as sugared doughnut with passionfruit curd and white chocolate love letter, raspberry and vanilla battenburg and Adam and Eve cinnamon and apple mousse. 

Accompanied by a wide selection of specially selected loose-leaf teas and coffees, or of course, a glass of fizz.

The Port Lympne Valentines Afternoon Tea launches on 10th February and runs until 17th and can be booked online at the above link.

And after your delightful Afternoon Tea why not make a day of it and explore the wild animal park and reconnect with nature and your loved ones in the heart of the Kent countryside surrounded by over 900 rare and endangered animals?

Included in your day tickets are free seats on the iconic Port Lympne Truck Safari that takes you round African and Asia to get up close and personal to giraffes, camels, rhinos, zebras and many more besides.

 

Celebrate Valentine's Day with a multi-sensory afternoon tea at the Great Scotland Yard Hotel

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the 5* Great Scotland Yard Hotel, London, is launching a special, sumptuous absolutely multi-sensory Valentine’s Afternoon Tea, available from 12th to 18th February, in collaboration with the iconic perfumery, Floris London.

Taking place in their sumptuous Parlour, which is a relaxed lounge within the prestigious hotel, the Valentine’s Afternoon Tea is elevated to new heights with a unique twist that combines the aromas and flavours of Floris London’s iconic fragrance, Santal, with exquisite pastries and teas. 

Experience top notes of Bergamot and Cardamom, heart notes of Lavender and Nutmeg and base notes of Amber and Vanilla.

Guests will be able to indulge themselves in ‘Wild mushroom and rocket quiche’, ‘Smoked salmon, caviar, horseradish cream on malted bread’, ‘Chestnut, Blackcurrant & hazelnut Love sponge’ and ‘Bergamot & Jasmin Mousse Heart.’

Freshly baked, warm scones will also be served, alongside delicious Cornish clotted cream and Rhubarb and rose jam. 

Created by the hotel’s Head pastry Chef Veronica Garrido Martinez, this afternoon tea will allow guests the perfect opportunity to explore this exclusive scent whilst enjoying the flavoursome, romantic afternoon tea.

Pricing begins at £59 for a standard booking and £70 for a Champagne booking. Guests can also book an Infinite Champagne booking for £89 for an hour and a half.

Valentine’s bookings can be made online, here or by calling 0207 9254 700. 

For more information about the Great Scotland Yard Hotel, visit www.greatscotlandyard.com.

Mandira's Kitchen Makes Celebrating Mother's Day Deliciously Different this Year

This year Mothering Sunday falls on 19 March 2023 and families are already planning how to spend this very special day with Mum to thank her for all she does for her family. 

And Mandira's Kitchen invites you to a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served on their delightful patio overlooking the Silent Pool or you can order a family feast  for 4 people that can be delivered to your door.

The Mother's Day Family Feast is available as classic or vegetarian options and includes some of their favourite Supper Club dishes; crispy samosas, Methi Chicken or Paneer, Jaipur Alu (baby potatoes simmered in spices) and Saffron Pulau, delightfully finished off with Gulab Jamun and Carrot Halwa.  Or choose the Biriyani and Bubbles feast.

For those who want to take Mum on a day out, why not book a slot (spaces are obviously limited) on either Saturday 18 or Sunday 19 March to have Afternoon Tea on the MK Patio, overlooking the Silent Pool.  

Set in the Surrey Hills the surrounding area is ideal for a family walk after an afternoon tea full of Indian street food treats such as :- A MK Cocktail on arrival; spinach and onion pakoras; lamb or vegetable sliders; Coronation Chicken mini pittas; Mini Papri Chaat; Khati Rolls; Spiced Cheese scones with tomato and date chutney; Rose Scones with Cardamon clotted cream; and more. 

Full details of the menus can be found on the Mandira's Kitchen website https://www.mandiraskitchen.com/collections/mothers-day.

In addition to the Mother's Day food you will also find a wide range of gifts and tableware including Chutney sets with serving dishes, Chai tea pot and glasses and many more dishes and tableware to make the perfect gifts.  

MK also has a range of vouchers for cookery lessons, spice tours and general spending on their website.

Mandira Sarkar, owner and founder of Mandira's Kitchen says: “This Mother's Day we want people to travel with us to a bygone era, my childhood amongst emerald tea bushes and blazing bougainvillea for the most amazing afternoon tea with an Indian twist. The menu reflects a gentler time and an unhurried pace,in this menu are a few of my favourites which I hope will also become yours and help you celebrate with your mum.”

Of course, Mandira's Kitchen will cater for any dietary restrictions and you can discuss your individual needs by emailing orders@mandiraskitchen.com.

All items can be ordered online from www.mandiraskitchen.com and either collected from Mandira's Kitchen at The Silent Pool Guildford or delivered to any UK Mainland address by Wednesday 15 March ready to eat over the weekend.  

All food arrives frozen at your door and can be kept in the fridge for 48 hours or in the freezer for up to 6 months.  Dishes can be heated in the microwave in 4 minutes, or in the oven.  Full details https://www.mandiraskitchen.com/collections/mothers-day.