Author Description

The afternoon tea is a tea ritual that is typically associated with Britain. Tea drinking is very popular in Britain. Afternoon tea is served around 4 PM. It evolved to fill the gap between lunch and the evening meal, which many won’t have before 8 PM, so the tea has become a ‘small meal’ in itself where scones, sandwiches, biscuits, cakes, and pastries are served with a variety of teas.<br/><br/>In England, afternoon tea is also a social event for the upper class. Society women would dress up in long gowns, hats, and gloves for their afternoon tea session. It would often be served in the drawing-room.<br/><br/>It was first introduced by the 7th Duchess of Bedford, Anna, in 1840. She used to feel hungry at 4 PM, but the evening meal won’t be served before 8. The Duchess asked for tea, served with butter and bread. Soon, she invited her friends.<br/><br/>It became widely popular when Queen Victoria started having her own afternoon tea. Her ‘tea receptions’ would sometimes have more than 200 guests. Often an open 'at home' invitation would be given to come anytime between 4 and 7 for the tea and the accompanying spread.<br/><br/>This book will introduce you to some delightful foods you can have with your afternoon tea. I will also show you how to prepare these recipes at home easily.<br/><br/>Happy reading!