What is high tea? For those who live outside of the United Kingdom, it’s is often thought of as a fancy, light meal that you’d wear formal attire to. But, while that used to be the case once upon a time, today it’s quite different.
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History
The British tradition of tea time started in the 1800s. It consisted of a relaxing experience among friends, enjoying tea and scones or cake, and small sandwiches.
High Tea was a bit different. Though the meal began in roughly the same way, it developed into a much heavier meal.
It became a working-class meal, served to working men and women who sat on high stools, giving it the name, and it was served shortly after 5 p.m.
So, it’s really a working-class meal served on a high table at the end of the workday; shortly after 5 p.m. Lord John Montagu, fourth Earl of Sandwich, got the idea to place meat and other fillings in the sandwiches. Go figure. Thank you so much, sir!
What is High Tea Today?
Today, its a heavy meal served late afternoon, consisting of heavy, substantial food like bangers and mash. Vegetable cakes, like potatoes or onion, and other heavy foods like baked beans and cheese casseroles are also served, but it’s really pretty open.
The idea is that this is the last meal of the day when you’re likely famished from running around at the end of the day, getting home from work.
Conclusion
High tea is a traditional meal served in the United Kingdom shortly after 5 p.m. It consists of heavy foods, such as meat pies and casseroles and served with tea or coffee. Yes, even coffee. It doesn’t need to involve tea at all, as it really just refers to the meal and the time it’s eaten.
