All About Scones
For centuries, daily teatime was an important part of life for a
large portion of Europe. It was an especially revered routine in the
United Kingdom, particularly during Britain’s Victorian Era. At that
time, “high tea” was one of the most extravagant affairs at the royal
court. The impressive routine began every day at 4pm, and was performed
with utmost respect for tradition.
High Teas and Scones
During high tea, this hot beverage was served with several varieties
of sweet and savory bites. Common selections included cucumber or
watercress sandwiches, teacakes, and biscuits. Each of these plates was
to be carefully prepared and brought before the royal household by
expertly trained serving staff. The entire affair took hours to plan and
execute, only to be repeated the following afternoon.
Today, few families have the time and means to recreate the glamour
of high tea. However, this does not mean people have given up the
traditional recipes associated with teatime. For example, hot, fresh
scones are still a traditional treat in many homes. No longer reserved
for tea, scones are now enjoyed with breakfast, as an after school
snack, and even for dessert.
Versatility of Scones
The true greatness of scones is their simple ingredients and ease of
preparation. They can be made in less than half an hour and enjoyed
right out of the oven. However, these quick breads do not need to be
eaten plain. In fact, many people have adopted variations on traditional
recipes that transform scones into sweet or savory pastries. Others like
to top the warm treats with creams, jams, or butters to enhance their
buttery flavor. While scones have traditionally been served with tea,
people today often combine them with soups, stews, and even a glass of
warm milk.
Don't Forget the Tea!
Of course, if you do want to stick with tradition, nothing is quite
as satisfying as a perfectly brewed cup of tea. To prepare your warm
beverage, start with a clean teapot. Add water, and bring it to a boil.
Next, add approximately 1 teaspoon of high-quality loose tea leaves for
each cup of tea you hope to prepare. Stir your pot briefly then allow
the whole thing to sit for about three minutes to let the tea infuse the
water with its rich flavor.
When it’s time to serve, strain the tea into mugs and enjoy with a
touch of lemon, honey, or sugar. Many people also like to add milk to
their tea. Keep in mind, though, that you should not add both milk and
lemon as this can curdle your drink. If you do add milk, place it in the
mug prior to pouring the tea. This enhances your brew’s taste.
Coffee & Scones?
As coffee has become increasingly popular, many people have opted to
replace their tea with this stronger beverage. To prepare coffee, you
will need a coffeemaker. The type you choose for your home depends on
your budget and personal tastes, but remember that quality counts when
brewing the perfect cup. The same is true for the type of coffee ground
you choose to brew. Remember, the darker the bean, the stronger the
flavor. Also, be sure the coffee you select is suited for the type of
coffeemaker you own. For example, a filter-drip model works best with a
medium ground coffee. Finally, try to serve your coffee with a variety
of creamers, milk, and sugar to suit various tastes.
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