It’s 3 PM again: do you know where your cucumber sandwiches are? There’s lots of talk about wine and even beer pairings with food, but what about pairing food with tea? Let’s talk about the six tips to help you create the perfect mid-afternoon spread to enjoy with your friends—or even just by yourself!
Start With the Right Tea
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Before we get into the food, let’s talk about the star of the show: the tea. Different teas have different flavor profiles, and pairing them correctly can make all the difference. For example, a robust black tea like English Breakfast pairs beautifully with hearty foods, while a delicate green tea complements lighter fare. Research the tea you plan to steep for tea time and build your menu around it!
Scones Are a Must
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No tea time is complete without a hefty plate of baked goods. We’re passionate about scones, personally, since they’re a British staple during tea time. Make it even more traditional by serving them with clotted cream and jam. You’ll have all your guests saying, “Oh, that’s good, innit?”
So Are Other Baked Goods
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But your passion for pastries shouldn’t stop at the humble scone. Cookies, pastries, and cakes can elevate your tea experience to new heights. Think buttery shortbread, delicate macarons, or a slice of rich chocolate cake. Just remember to balance the sweetness with the tea. A strong black tea can stand up to a rich dessert, while a lighter tea might get overwhelmed by something too sugary.
Oh, and Don’t Forget Finger Sandwiches
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The only other food that’s directly associated with tea time is finger sandwiches. Cucumber sandwiches are a classic choice, but feel free to get creative! Smoked salmon, egg salad, or even a good old-fashioned PB&J can work wonders. The key is to keep them small and manageable; you don’t want your guests wrestling with a Big Mac while they’re trying to keep their pinky up as they sip.
Cheese!
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A snack platter without cheese is a sad one, indeed. You’re probably already considering adding cheese to your tea time, but take a similar approach to other foods to ensure you aren’t overwhelming your tea. Many cheeses, like bleu or Gruyere, are intense in flavor and would completely swallow the delicate profile of a jasmine tea. Mastering cheese pairing is another world in and of itself, but it’s best to pair mild with mild and wild with wild.
Dips and Spreads
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If you want to take your tea time to the next level, consider adding some dips and spreads to the mix. Hummus, tzatziki, or even a delightful olive tapenade can add a savory touch to your afternoon. Pair these with some crisp vegetables or pita chips, and you’ve got a winning combination. The only real flavor you need to worry about here is garlic. We’d never say there’s such a thing as too much garlic. But the reality is that many teas are just too soft to combat a lot of fresh garlic, so maybe dial it back a bit.
Experts Warn People to ALWAYS Refrigerate These 12 Non-Food Items
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We all know our fridge and freezer are great for food and beverage preservation, but did you know you could use your fridge for other things beyond your kitchen pantry? You can store multiple things in your refrigerator to maintain potency, extend shelf life, or preserve them. Find out more as we list some of the surprising things you can keep in your refrigerator besides food.
Experts Warn People to ALWAYS Refrigerate These 12 Non-Food Items
20 Food to Stockpile (For the Best Chance of Survival)
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A well-stocked pantry can provide peace of mind and empower you to handle any situation. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or simply unexpected guests, having a stash of versatile essential foods can make all the difference. Here’s a list of 20 of the best foods to stockpile, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
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