Indians and their love for tea know no bounds. Most of us start our day with a cup of tea and end it with one in the evening. It has the power to instantly lift our spirits, doesn't it? Not only this, whenever we get to know about some new tea variety or perhaps even some older traditions, it automatically excites us to know more. Recently, the concepts of high tea and afternoon tea have become quite popular. You must've even attended these tea parties at some point. While they are typically British tea customs, they continue to be followed even now. But do you know what exactly they are all about? Let's understand these concepts in detail so that you're well equipped with your tea knowledge.
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What Is High Tea?
According to legends, high tea was served to gentlemen and ladies who worked hard all day at work. The term 'high' signifies that tea was served at high tables or counters. The tradition of high tea was started to help refuel these people who would come back exhausted after a tiring day at work. It was usually served between 6 pm and 7 pm along with wholesome meals such as meat, eggs, or fish, which helped provide nourishment to the workers. And tea just happened to be a part of this meal.
What Is Afternoon Tea?
Unlike high tea, which was more formal, afternoon tea was all about relaxation and reserved for aristocrats. It was more of a leisure activity than something to provide nourishment. Afternoon tea would be served between 3 pm and 4 pm on low tables with an assortment of fancy finger foods. From pastries, scones and sandwiches to a wide variety of teas, everything would be perfectly laid out on tables in dainty crockery for guests to enjoy. These afternoon tea parties provided the perfect opportunity for socialisation and were more casual than formal.
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High Tea Vs Afternoon Tea: What's The Difference?
To better understand the distinctions between these two classic British customs, let's review the major differences between high tea and afternoon tea:
1. Historical Context
High tea traditionally catered to individuals who worked throughout the day, often served on high tables. Afternoon tea, on the other hand, was originally intended as a social gathering. However, over the years, these customs have evolved, and now both high tea and afternoon tea are enjoyed by everyone.
2. Serving Time
High tea is typically served between 5 pm and 7 pm, offering a substantial meal to replace dinner. Afternoon tea, on the other hand, is served between lunch and dinner, generally from 3 pm to 4 pm.
3. Food Selection
High tea usually includes more substantial dishes such as fish, meat, and eggs, providing a fuller meal. In contrast, afternoon tea parties feature elegant finger foods like pastries, sandwiches, and scones.
By understanding these differences, you can appreciate the unique aspects of both high tea and afternoon tea and choose the one that suits your preferences and schedule.