Tea was introduced to the British elite in 17th century by the Dutch and Portuguese traders and certain traditions developed around drinking tea. The trade of East India Company with China and India made tea more accessible to the common people giving birth to more traditions and cultural significance. Today, United Kingdom is one of the highest tea consuming countries.
Introduction of Tea to the British:
Tea was first introduced to Britain in the 17th century when it was brought to England by Portuguese and Dutch traders. At the time, tea was a luxury item that was only available to the wealthy, and it was often sold in small quantities at high prices.
The Portuguese princess Catherine of Braganza played a significant role in the introduction of tea to Britain. In 1662, Catherine married King Charles II of England, and as part of her dowry, she brought with her a large quantity of tea. Catherine was known to be a tea enthusiast, and she helped to popularise the beverage among the British aristocracy. Her love of tea helped to establish it as a fashionable and desirable drink among the upper classes, and it played a key role in the growth of the tea trade in Britain.
The East India Company, a British trading company, began importing tea to England in the mid-17th century. The first recorded shipment of tea arrived in London in 1658. As the East India Company expanded its trade with China, the supply of tea increased, and its price decreased, making it more accessible to the general population.
Tea’s popularity in Britain grew rapidly during the 18th century. The British government heavily taxed tea, making it a significant source of revenue. By the mid-19th century, tea had become a widely consumed beverage throughout the country. Tea became a symbol of British identity, and its consumption was associated with social status and refinement. Tea gardens and tea shops became popular venues for socialising, and the tradition of afternoon tea was established.
Tea Consumption in the United Kingdom:
The United Kingdom consumes 100 million cups of tea daily, which is approximately 36 billion per year, says UK Tea & Infusions Association crediting ITC for the information. Tea is consumed throughout the day, with many people enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, afternoon, and evening. It is also a popular beverage in social settings, with tea being served at gatherings, meetings, and events.
British Traditions surrounding Tea:
There are several British traditions surrounding tea making and drinking, like Afternoon tea, High tea, Cream tea, Tea rooms. Some of these traditions have been established for centuries.
- Afternoon Tea:
Afternoon tea is a British tradition that originated in the early 19th century. It was introduced by Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who found herself feeling hungry between lunch and dinner. She began inviting friends to join her for a light meal of tea, sandwiches, and cakes in the afternoon. This practice soon became fashionable among the upper classes and eventually spread throughout society. Today, afternoon tea around 4pm, is a cherished British custom, often enjoyed in hotels, tea rooms, and homes across the country. - High Tea:
High tea is a more substantial meal than afternoon tea and is typically served later in the day around 5 to 7 PM. It originated among the working classes in the 19th century and was a way for them to have a substantial meal after a long day of work. High tea typically includes hot dishes such as meat pies, quiches, and casseroles, as well as bread, butter, and jam. Tea is also served, but it is often a stronger blend than the tea served at afternoon tea. - Cream Tea:
Cream tea is a tradition that originated in the West Country of England, particularly in Devon and Cornwall. It consists of tea served with scones, clotted cream, and jam. The scones are typically split in half and topped with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of jam. Cream tea is often served in tea rooms and cafes throughout the region.
- Tea Gardens:
Tea gardens were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and were a place for people to socialise and enjoy tea in a beautiful outdoor setting. Tea gardens were often located in parks or gardens and featured tables and chairs, as well as live music and entertainment. Today, tea gardens are less common, but some still exist in parks and gardens throughout the country. - Tea Rooms:
Tea rooms provide a distinct experience centered around tea, allowing customers to immerse themselves in the pleasure of tea drinking. They serve as social spaces where friends, families, or individuals can gather for conversation, relaxation, and indulgence. Tea rooms also offer a selection of cakes, pastries, scones, sandwiches, and other light snacks that pair well with tea. tea rooms may offer additional services such as afternoon tea or high tea experiences, where a set menu of tea and accompanying delicacies is served. Tea rooms are found in hotels, historic buildings as well as standalone establishments. - Tea etiquette:
British tea culture values certain etiquette practices, such as using a tea strainer when pouring tea from the teapot to remove any loose tea leaves, holding the teacup with the handle, and stirring the tea gently with a teaspoon. - Teapots and Teacups:
Another important tradition associated with British tea is the use of teapots and teacups. Tea is typically brewed in a teapot and served in a teacup with a saucer. They are typically made of porcelain or bone china and are often decorated with intricate designs or patterns. The use of teapots and teacups adds to the elegance and sophistication of the beverage. - Tea Cosies:
A tea cosy is a knitted or crocheted cover that fits over a teapot to keep the tea warm. Tea cosies were popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries and were often made in elaborate designs. Today, tea cosies are still used, but they are more commonly made in simple designs and are often used as a way to add a personal touch to a teapot.
Tea is an integral part of British culture, and its consumption is steeped in history and tradition.
How to make British Tea?
The “British tea” or “British-style tea,” refers to the traditional way of preparing and serving tea in British culture. While there may be variations in personal preferences, the key aspects of the British method are:
- Use of black tea:
British tea is typically made using black tea leaves, such as Assam, Darjeeling, or Ceylon. These teas are known for their robust flavors and are often enjoyed with milk and sugar. - Tea leaves or tea bags:
While loose tea leaves are traditionally used, tea bags have become more common in British households for convenience. Both options are widely accepted, but loose tea is often considered to offer a more flavorful and customizable cup of tea.
To make a proper cup of British tea, follow these steps:
- Boil fresh, cold water in a kettle. The water should reach a rolling boil to ensure the tea brews correctly.
- Warm the teapot by swirling a small amount of the boiled water inside it, then discard the water.
- Add one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea or one tea bag per person, plus one extra for the pot, to the warmed teapot.
- Pour the boiling water over the tea, ensuring all the leaves or the tea bag are submerged. The ideal brewing temperature for black tea, which is most commonly consumed in Britain, is around 100°C (212°F).
- Allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on personal preference for strength.
- While the tea is steeping, add milk to the teacup. The amount of milk varies according to individual taste, but it is typically a small splash.
- Pour the brewed tea into the teacup, using a tea strainer if necessary to catch any loose leaves.
- If desired, add sugar or a sweetener to taste.
- Stir the tea gently and enjoy it while it’s hot.
In addition to the traditional method, there are regional variations in tea preparation and consumption across the United Kingdom. For example, in Scotland, a stronger blend of tea called “Scottish Breakfast” is popular, while in Cornwall, a “cream tea” is served with scones, clotted cream, and jam.
Summarising:
Tea is an integral part of British culture and society, and it has played a significant role in shaping the country’s history and identity. From its introduction to the country in the 17th century to its current status as a beloved national beverage, tea has become an iconic symbol of Britishness with its traditions and culture.
