How to Serve High Tea

Serving English high tea is one way to entertain guests in a sophisticated manner. The term, high tea, originated amongst the working class in Great Britain. While some people think high tea refers to a rather haughty event, the truth is that high tea refers to a supper event that takes place around a buffet counter or while seated at high stools. Today, English high tea is preferred by business people as good time to discuss important matters.

Things You'll Need

• Teapot
• Teacups and saucers
• Creamer dispenser
• Sugar bowl
• Plates
• Forks and spoons
• Spreading knives
• Napkins

Instructions

1. Invite your guests to join you for high tea between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. This time is appropriate for high tea, as it is designed to replace dinner.

2. Gather the items you will need for your event including: teapot, teacups and saucers, creamer bowl, sugar bowl, plates, forks and spoons, spreading knives, napkins and a variety of plates.

3. Select the tea you will provide. You can serve loose tea or bagged tea. If you serve loose tea, then provide an infuser for each guest. If you serve bagged tea, set out a wide variety. You can serve hot water in your pot and allow guests to pick their own tea. This is the optimal way to meet everyone's needs.

4. Prepare food for the event. Serve a variety of foods including warm foods and simple finger foods. Meat dishes are acceptable and welcome, especially during winter months. Lighter foods include scones, cakes, crumpets and pudding.

5. Arrange your finger food properly. Typically, a three tier platter is preferred. Scones are placed on the top tier, followed by sandwiches on the second tier and sweets on the lowest tier. Warm dishes are served in proper serving bowls.

6. Host the event properly by encouraging relaxation and light conversation.

Tips & Warnings

• Provide lemon slices with your tea.

• Send out a written invitation detailing the nature of the event. Your invitation can be on one card and should provide information about the food which will be served.

• Serve food in appropriate quantities. If you have three guests, be sure to serve three of each item.

• Serve milk instead of cream.

• While herbal and fruit teas are popular, they are not as traditional as Earl Grey.

Resources

• For tea sandwich recipes go to whastcookingamerica.net.