Afternoon tea is like a bridge between meals because many wouldn’t eat their evening meal until maybe 8pm. As such, Afternoon Tea became a ‘mini meal’ in itself in different part of countries.The drinking of tea not only became a social event for the upper classes, it altered the time and manner in which they took tea.
Afternoon Tea is largely a social event for upper class counterparts in UK, high tea was a necessary meal in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This traditional high tea still exists for some parts of the North and Scotland. and now followed in INDIA as well.
English High Tea usually involves a mug of tea, bread, vegetables, cheese and occasionally meat. sometimes it can also include the addition of pies, potatoes and crackers, depending on taste buds.
Why is it called ‘high tea’?
A possible explanation why this type of meal is called high tea is the fact that it is eaten at a table in a very classy manner with the right kind of crockery.In comparison, Afternoon Tea is taken whilst seating in low, comfortable chairs or sofas.
Of course, the upper classes developed their own variation and also called it ‘high tea’. It is a meal that could be eaten when the servants are away or not available, as it is so easy to prepare. The upper class ‘high tea’ involves a special Tea menu which includes additional savoury items such as English muffins, pies, sandwiches, macrons or omelette.it is served in a special crockery which is quite expensive too.
ELMA’S bakery serves best High T in Haus Khas in Delhi. one must give it a try. she does it so well. trust me!!!!!
Some hotels, such as The Ritz in London, use the term ‘High tea in London’ to advertise their Afternoon Tea because a large proportion of their customers are from overseas. In fact now every 5 star hotel across the country has its own High T menu. so next time you step in a 5 star hotel in that odd timings, do try HIGH TEAS n you can also share your experience with me…..
hope you enjoyed reading it….
Tea and Coffee blogs 