Many cultures attach particular importance to tea time, but perhaps the highest value is attributed to it by the British. But have you ever considered the difference between high tea and afternoon tea? Though they are now used as synonymous, they are different in their genesis, exterior, and function. It is time to sort out the questions regarding tea time once and for all. Let’s take a closer look!
What Is Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea is one of the most ceremonious occasions ever invented. Imagine yourself sitting in a warm, brightly lit room surrounded by porcelain tea cups, tiered platters of pastries, and gentle classical music in the background. This tradition dates back to the 1840s, having been initiated by Anna the Duchess of Bedford, who considered having a light meal between breakfast and supper.
Afternoon tea is lighter and can refer to an informal snack or a formalized event used for a social purpose, generally for celebration. Here’s what typically graces the table:
- Tea Selection: Professional coffee, different sorts of tea starting from the classic Earl Grey to the modern herbal blend.
- Scones: Best served warm with clotted cream and jam – perhaps even the focal point, if every British person who enjoys a scone decided to put the pictures as their Facebook profile picture!
- Finger Sandwiches: It makes one think of cucumber, smoked salmon, or even egg salad sandwiches among other foods.
- Sweet Treats: Small cakes, and tartlets for New Year celebrations.
This delightful tradition has nothing to do with hard work, Kaffees, and Curiosities stand for relaxation, chitchat, and Libuss’s. Normally it is taken in the early evening that is between 3 PM and 5 PM.
What Is High Tea?
Just as in the case of the actual origins of tea, high tea is less grand than it might sound. It developed in the course of the Industrial Revolution as a heavy meal taken at night, particularly among the wage earners. The word ‘high’ meant higher table or dining table it was served at compared to low tables used for afternoon tea in the lounge.
High tea is more filling and has more meat than the afternoon tea type. A typical high tea might include:
- Hearty Dishes: Cold meats, pies, sausages, and baked beans.
- Bread and Butter: A basic, feel-good food that doesn’t need much extravagance to make it excellent.
- Desserts: Afternoon tea sandwiches or small cakes or puddings but not as delicate as tea time cakes or pastries.
- Tea or Ale: Well, in many recipes, yes, ale is called for and employed!
What would be consumed at about 6 PM in those days was not as luxurious as one would think, although referred to as high tea.
Which One Should You Try?
For a sense of sophistication and therefore a little bit of glam, you look to afternoon tea. Great for celebrations like birthdays or bridal showers or basically when you just want to pamper yourself. On the other hand, if you feel like having your stomach full and feel the countryside sort of restaurant then high tea may just be what you need.
As time continues to elapse, both continue to prevail but are still amazing experiences. And so the next time you are invited for tea, you will know what to expect out of it.
Which one would you rather buy? Please feel free to let us know in the comments below.
