Tea is a quintessential part of British culture, and hosting a traditional British tea party is a charming and elegant way to entertain guests. In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of high tea and offer tips on how to host a proper British tea party.
- Set the Table One of the most important elements of a proper British tea party is a beautifully set table. Use your best china and silverware, and add some elegant touches like a lace tablecloth or fresh flowers. If you don’t have a full set of china, don’t worry – you can mix and match different pieces to create a charming and eclectic look.
- Brew the Perfect Pot of Tea The quality of the tea is crucial to a successful tea party. Use loose-leaf tea and boil fresh water in a kettle, and then let the water cool for a minute or two before pouring it over the tea leaves. Steep the tea for 3-5 minutes, depending on the type of tea, and then strain it into a teapot. Serve the tea with milk, sugar, and lemon on the side, so guests can customize their cups to their liking.
- Serve Classic Tea Party Fare Finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries are all classic tea party fare that are sure to please your guests. For sandwiches, use thinly sliced bread and fillings like cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and dill, or egg salad. For scones, serve them warm with clotted cream and jam. And for pastries, try classic treats like petit fours or fruit tarts.
- Don’t Forget the Accompaniments In addition to tea and food, there are a few other essential accompaniments that can elevate your tea party to the next level. A tiered cake stand is a must-have for serving sandwiches and pastries, and a pretty teapot and matching cups and saucers can add a touch of elegance to the table. And of course, don’t forget to provide plenty of napkins and teaspoons for stirring tea.
- Add Some Personal Touches Finally, add some personal touches to make your tea party unique and memorable. Consider creating custom place cards for each guest, or offering a selection of teas for guests to choose from. You could also incorporate a theme, such as a garden party or a vintage tea party, and decorate the table accordingly.
In conclusion, hosting a proper British tea party is a delightful way to entertain guests and enjoy a timeless tradition. By setting a beautiful table, brewing the perfect pot of tea, serving classic tea party fare, and adding personal touches, you can create a memorable and elegant experience for your guests. So why not plan a tea party for your next gathering, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good tea, good food, and good company?
