The permission of tea trade led to hundreds of coffee shops sprouting up in London and the traditional breakfasts and dinners were reformulated to include tea. The standard drink of ale at an English breakfast was soon pushed aside and replaced with traditional English-style tea.
Another tradition that soon took hold in England was the tradition of serving English-style afternoon tea. Afternoon tea is said to be credited to Anna, the 7thDuchess of Bedford in the early 19th century. The story is told that she was unable to muster through from breakfast to the normal dinner time, which didn’t occur until approximately 8-9 pm, without experiencing hunger. Anna would order along with bread and butter and a pastry or cake in the afternoon. This tradition soon took hold among her friends and from there, having afternoon became a popular tradition.
Many Americans mistake afternoon tea for high tea; however, there is a difference. Afternoon tea is usually served between 2-5 pm and high (or sometimes referred to as meat tea) is served with the late evening meal. The traditional afternoon tea most commonly includes any of the following servings:
Light Tea: This afternoon break comes with a serving of tea, as well as scones and other delectable treats.
Cream Tea: This afternoon delight serves tea and scones along with jam and cream.
Full Tea: This is the whole ball of wax; it is a serving of tea as well as a three course snack of savories, which includes finger sandwiches or appetizers; scones served with cream or jam; and pastries, including cookies, sweets, cakes, and/or shortbread.
The English-style loose teas that are served with afternoon can vary depending on personal preference. Some of the more common might include any one of a number of flavors of Earl Grey, black, or white gourmet loose leaf tea. Regardless of the type, afternoon tea, along with the snack, is a mid-day boost that will re-energize the body to get through the rest of the day and last until dinner.
As well as the afternoon tea tradition, English-style teas can also be found in a variety of breakfast flavors, such as black tea. These teas have a robust flavor and distinct aroma that is sure to trigger the senses and get you moving in the morning. Earl Grey are popular any time of the day. They are seasoned with bergamot oil and can include one or a combination of Chinese black, green or white loose leaf, Ceylon, or South India teas.
Don’t be led astray and think that these teas are only available to the English; all of the teas, as well as the traditions can be enjoyed around the world. The English set the tone and now the Western world is catching on and figuring out what all the fuss is about. Begin your own tradition today and buy some of the best English-style loose leaf tea available online at LoveTea.com.
