Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition, and one which has been enjoyed for centuries. The exact origins of afternoon tea are unclear, but it is thought that it was Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who is credited with inventing it. The Duchess would become hungry around 4pm, and would order a tray of tea, bread and butter and cake to be brought to her room. She would then invite friends to join her, and the tradition of afternoon tea was born!
These days, afternoon tea is enjoyed by people up and down the country, and is often seen as a special treat. If you’re planning on hosting your own afternoon tea party, why not add a Welsh twist? Here are some ideas to help you do just that…
Serve Welsh cakes instead of scones
Welsh cakes are a delicious traditional treat, and are perfect for serving at afternoon tea. They’re similar to scones, but are made with self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs and dried fruit, and are cooked on a griddle. Serve your Welsh cakes warm, with butter and jam.
Make Welsh rarebit instead of sandwiches
Welsh rarebit is a savoury dish made with cheese and beer, and is the perfect alternative to sandwiches. You can make Welsh rarebit in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Serve laverbread instead of smoked salmon
Laverbread is a traditional Welsh dish made with seaweed. It’s usually served fried with bacon, but can also be served cold as a canapé. If you’re serving it cold, simply spread it on some toast and top with smoked salmon.
Add a Welsh twist to your cakes and desserts
There are lots of ways to add a Welsh twist to your cakes and desserts. You could make Welsh cakes, bara brith (a fruit cake), or Welsh cream teacakes. Or, for something really different, why not try Welsh honey ice cream or a Welsh rarebit tart?
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition, and one which has been enjoyed for centuries. The exact origins of afternoon tea are unclear, but it is thought that it was Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who is credited with inventing it. The Duchess would become hungry around 4pm, and would order a tray of tea, bread and butter and cake to be brought to her room. She would then invite friends to join her, and the tradition of afternoon tea was born!
These days, afternoon tea is enjoyed by people up and down the country, and is often seen as a special treat. If you’re planning on hosting your own afternoon tea party, why not add a Welsh twist? Here are some ideas to help you do just that…
Serve Welsh cakes instead