Would anyone like a cup of tea?

Tea Time at the Reid's Palace Hotel. Funchal, Madeira

A cup of tea is the greatest of all British traditions.

Taking time for tea is meant to be a short period for conversation, enjoyment and releasing the stress of everyday life. 

Whether the tea is loose leaf or a simple tea bag, served in a silver teapot, fine china or in a mug, it is guaranteed to provide refreshment.

This revitalizing and comforting drink is served in every household or workplace throughout Britain from Buckingham Palace to the most modest place.

How to make the perfect cup of tea:

-         Warm the teapot with boiling water. After 2-3 minutes pour the water away.

-         Spoon one teaspoon of tea per person plus one for the teapot.

-         Pour over boiling water until the pot is three-quarters full. Leave to steep for 2-3 minutes, stirring once to ensure the leaves infuse properly.

-         Strain the tea into teacups.

In Britain people usually add milk.

No English tea would be complete without cucumber sandwiches, cakes,

or these scones:

Teatime Scones

450g self-raising flour

100g butter

100g caster sugar

250ml milk

1 small egg, beaten

Mix the flour, butter, sugar and milk using your fingertips to form a smooth ball. Divide it into 12 small balls and place them on a greased baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Serve split and buttered, with Bramble jelly.



More posts about tea:

Tea time - uma pausa para o chá


The Tea Spy