Tea for Two

"A woman is like a tea bag; only in hot water do you realize how strong she is." Eleanor Roosevelt 

In the interest of my favorite past time, and given that my father bestowed upon me the most amazing Royal Albert Tea Set as a wedding present, I thought it fitting that I should share some tips on how to host a perfect Tea Party.

tea party - noun: An afternoon social gathering at which tea and light refreshments are served. 

What will I need?

• Top of the list - good company. Keep in mind that the tea ritual was designed to be a cozy and intimate gathering so be sure to limit your guest list!
• Send invitations two weeks ahead of time. Written invitations are always elegant, but telephone or email  will do. 
• Gather the following: a teapot, teacups and saucers, a tea strainer and small dish to deposit the tea leaves or tea bag, a pot of milk, lemon slices, jam, sugar and artificial sweetener, small plates, utensils, and napkins.
• On the day of the tea, bring refreshments in on trays or a cart and set the table so that guests may serve themselves. The hostess should always pour the tea and pass it to each guest    

                  

What Kind of Tea Shall It Be?

• Light Tea: this is a simple spread consisting of scones, jam, and cream. It is ideal for girl talk with your closest friends. And it's informal enough to serve right in the kitchen!
• Afternoon Tea or Low tea: is traditionally served between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The menu consists of light finger sandwiches, scones, assorted pastries, and a layer cake or trifle. Hold this elegant tea in a comfortable setting such as a living room or den. In warm weather, move the party to a lawn, deck, or even poolside.
• High tea is a sit-down meal traditionally served after 6:00 p.m, high tea consists of robust meat dishes, bread and cheese, and a dessert of cake or pie.

                                                          

What to Serve?

Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwiches

½ stick butter

2 tbsp fresh mint leaves

8 slices of bread, crusts removed

½ large cucumber, thinly sliced

Sugar

In small bowl, mix butter and mint until well blended. Spread mixture onto slices of bread. Lay cucumber on 4 slices of bread. Sprinkle a dash of sugar on cucumber. Top with remaining slices of bread. Cut diagonally and serve.

8 servings.

Cranberry Scones 

2 cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1/3 cup butter, diced

1 cup whipping cream

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 egg white

1 teaspoon orange zest

1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add butter until mixture is course and crumbly. Add whipping cream and stir until mixture is moist. Mix in cranberries, nutmeg, and orange zest.Place on a lightly floured surface and knead 6 or 7 times. Roll until ½ inch thick. Cut with a biscuit cutter and place each scone 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet.

Brush tops of scones with egg white and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

12 servings

Having a tea party is an inexpensive way to entertain your closest friends. The serving is usually light, and easy to pick up with the fingers. Tea time can be a simple pause during the day or a multicourse meal. The tea meal can be as flexible and reflective of mood or theme as you wish.


Happy Planning! :)