An Inviting Tradition

Photo Credit: Myhouseandgarden.com

From the far East to the coffee houses of Shakespeare’s day, from the Imperial Russian court to America’s Boston Tea Party, tea is the stuff dreams are made of (Stash Tea). Spanning thousands of years and a multitude of cultures, tea is a time honored tradition in many countries, though not as practiced in the United States, much to my dismay. Though no one can be definitively certain of the exact beginnings as a beverage, the origins of tea (as leaves, species, etc) are believed to have originated in the lands of India, Burma, China and Tibet (Wikipedia). Speculation on the origins may continue but the delightful experience of taking tea in the afternoon (or any time of day) is a tradition which lives on and this tea-drinker believes will live on always.

If one is not in a country that boasts a wide range of tea houses, then one must create the atmosphere in one's own backyard, or kitchen. There are no set rules to the location, though during the summer, taking tea and a light repast under the shade of a giant oak or pine as the summer sun peaks through, is quite a delight.

So what makes afternoon tea so very enjoyable and why does our American culture not practice it with as much zeal as so many others? I couldn't really say as to the latter, but one may speculate that it has simply been left behind with each passing generation. As for the enjoyment, it is simply that, a joy. Granted there are health benefits to many tea varietals (even the non-caffeinated blends this author prefers), but more than that it is a journey back to a day of elegance and refinement. The lovely tea service (with an actual tea pot) laid out over a beautiful cloth. An array of delectable treats from cookies and scones, to mini sandwiches and eclairs artfully set upon cake stands and platters.

So is there a perfect blend or brand of tea? Really it depends upon one's preference. I myself enjoy loose leaf blends made from organic leaves and flowers. Mountain Rose Herbs has a wide selection of satisfying teas overflowing with health benefits. Numi brand tea also has excellent quality blends, though in tea bags, and some without caffeine. Just remember, the quality of the tea leaves will make a remarkable difference in the beverage. It is worth buying organic or even growing using herbs and plants from your own garden (just know what you're doing!).

Whether alone or with company, afternoon tea is meant to be enjoyed. A proper tea is not rushed, but savored as one is tempted by morsels and in the company of friends. This day and age does not always allow for daily afternoon tea, so if you find the daily practice too time consuming, set aside one afternoon per week, invite a few friends over and enjoy a couple of hours just to yourselves.

The Perfect Cup of Tea

(by Susannah Blake, author of Afternoon Tea)

1. First, empty the kettle, then fill it with freshly drawn water and bring it almost to a boil. Pour 2-4 inches water into the teapot, then bring the remaining water to a boil. 
2. Swirl the water around the pot to warm it thoroughly, then drain and add the tea leaves (usually a teaspoon per person, plus one for the pot). 
3. Pour over the freshly boiled water. Stir once or twice with a spoon, then place the lid on the teapot and brew for 3-5 minutes until the perfect color and flavor have been achieved. (Do not try to speed up the process by mashing with a spoon-your patience will be rewarded.)
4. Pour the tea into cups using a tea strainer to catch the leaves. Add milk or a thin slice of lemon, or simply enjoy it black. If liked, you may also add sugar to taste.