When one thinks of British cuisine, hearty dishes like fish and chips, meat pies, and Sunday roast often come to mind. However, what many people don’t realize is that the British have a rich and diverse beverage culture as well. And at the heart of it all is tea.
Tea has been a staple in British culture for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 17th century. It was initially introduced by Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese wife of King Charles II. Since then, it has become an integral part of British daily life.
But what makes British tea so special? For starters, there is a wide variety of teas to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular include Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Darjeeling. And let’s not forget the beloved afternoon tradition of scones and tea, a quintessentially British pastime.
But it’s not just about the tea itself. It’s also about the rituals and customs that surround it. For example, the art of making a proper cup of tea is taken very seriously in Britain. And no tea is complete without a splash of milk and a few cubes of sugar, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century.
So next time you find yourself in Britain, be sure to take some time to truly appreciate the richness of British beverages, with a cup of tea at the center of it all.