Savoury Dishes For Afternoon Tea

Savoury Delights for Your Afternoon Tea: Beyond the Sandwiches

Afternoon tea, a beloved tradition, often conjures images of dainty finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and fragrant tea. However, the savoury element of this elegant repast deserves more than a cursory glance. This article explores a wide array of savoury dishes perfect for elevating your afternoon tea experience, moving beyond the usual cucumber and ham. We'll delve into the art of creating both classic and inventive savoury bites, ensuring your next afternoon tea is a truly memorable culinary journey. From simple finger foods to more elaborate creations, we’ll cover everything you need to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

The Classic Approach: Reimagining the Finger Sandwich

While the classic finger sandwich holds a cherished place in afternoon tea, there's ample room for creativity. The key is using high-quality ingredients and focusing on flavour combinations that complement each other beautifully.

Beyond the Cucumber:

• Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese: A timeless combination, enhanced with a squeeze of lemon and fresh dill. Consider using different types of smoked salmon for variety.
• Egg Salad with Chives: A simple yet elegant choice. Add a touch of mayonnaise and mustard for extra flavour. Consider adding finely diced celery for texture.
• Roast Beef and Horseradish Cream: For a richer, more robust flavour, this combination provides a sophisticated bite. Thinly sliced roast beef is key.
• Chicken Salad with Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and savoury combination that adds a festive touch. Use a good quality chicken and homemade cranberry sauce for the best results.
• Cream Cheese and Smoked Paprika: For vegetarians, this simple yet flavorful option is a winner. The smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth.

Elevating the Classic:

• Use artisanal breads: Move beyond white bread. Experiment with sourdough, rye, or even brioche for a unique texture and flavour profile.
• Consider the cut: Instead of simple rectangles, try cutting your sandwiches into triangles, rounds, or even decorative shapes using cookie cutters.
• Play with textures: Add crunchy elements like toasted nuts or crispy vegetables to provide contrast to the soft bread and fillings.
• Presentation matters: Arrange your sandwiches artfully on a tiered stand to enhance the visual appeal.

Expanding the Horizons: Savoury Bites Beyond Sandwiches

The possibilities for savoury additions to your afternoon tea are practically endless. Let's explore some exciting options:

Mini Quiches and Tartlets:

These bite-sized delights are easy to prepare and offer a wide array of flavour combinations. Consider:

• Classic Lorraine: Bacon, cheese, and cream – a timeless favourite.
• Mushroom and Gruyere: Earthy mushrooms and nutty Gruyere cheese create a sophisticated pairing.
• Spinach and Feta: A vegetarian option that’s both healthy and delicious.
• Asparagus and Parmesan: Elegant and refreshing, especially during springtime.

Savoury Scones:

Don't limit scones to sweet varieties! Savoury scones offer a satisfying alternative.

• Cheese and Chive Scones: Simple, flavourful, and perfect with a dollop of cream cheese or a light spread of butter.
• Herb and Parmesan Scones: A more robust flavour profile, ideal for those who prefer a bolder taste.
• Bacon and Cheddar Scones: A classic combination that delivers a satisfying savory punch.

Miniature Sausage Rolls:

These are always a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who appreciate a more substantial savoury treat. Consider using high-quality sausage meat and ensuring they’re baked to perfection for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Scotch Eggs:

Though perhaps a bit more involved, perfectly executed scotch eggs are a true culinary masterpiece. The contrast between the soft yolk, seasoned sausage meat, and crispy breadcrumb coating is a delight.

Miniature Frittatas:

Similar to quiches, but often with a simpler crust or no crust at all, these bite-sized frittatas are versatile and easy to prepare ahead of time. Experiment with various vegetables and cheese combinations.

Adding a Touch of Elegance: Canapés and Amuse-Bouches

Canapés and amuse-bouches elevate the afternoon tea experience to a new level of sophistication. These bite-sized delicacies offer a refined and elegant touch.

Examples of Elegant Savoury Bites:

• Smoked Salmon Blinis with Crème Fraîche: A classic combination that’s both elegant and delicious.
• Cucumber and Dill Tartlets: A refreshing and light option.
• Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: A sweet and savoury combination that is both visually appealing and flavourful.
• Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini: A sophisticated and flavourful choice.
• Mushroom and Thyme Vol-au-vents: A classic French pastry filled with savoury goodness.

Scientific Considerations: Texture and Flavour Combinations

The success of your savoury afternoon tea selection hinges on understanding basic culinary principles:

• Texture Contrast: Aim for a variety of textures to prevent monotony. Combine crispy, crunchy, creamy, and soft elements for a dynamic sensory experience. This interplay keeps things interesting and prevents palate fatigue.

• Flavour Balance: Consider the balance of flavours. Sweet and savoury pairings are popular, but ensure that the sweet element complements the savory, rather than overpowering it. A balanced flavour profile is key to a satisfying experience.

• Temperature Considerations: While many savoury items are served at room temperature, some benefit from being served slightly warm or even chilled. Consider the best serving temperature for each item to enhance the overall enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How far in advance can I prepare these savoury dishes? Many of these items can be prepared a day or two in advance. For example, mini quiches and tartlets can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving. Sandwiches should be assembled closer to serving time to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

• What drinks pair well with savoury afternoon tea? While traditional afternoon tea focuses on black tea, savoury items also pair well with sparkling wine, white wine, or even a light beer. Consider the flavours of your savoury dishes when choosing a beverage pairing.

• How many savoury items should I include? The number of savoury items depends on the overall size and scope of your afternoon tea. Aim for a variety of options, with at least three or four different savoury bites to offer your guests a range of flavours and textures. A good rule of thumb is to have a balance between sweet and savory options.

• How should I present the savoury items? Presentation is crucial! Use tiered stands, attractive serving platters, and small decorative elements to create a visually appealing spread. Consider colour coordination and visual balance in the arrangement of your savoury delights.

Conclusion: A Memorable Afternoon Tea

By venturing beyond the usual suspects and incorporating the suggestions outlined above, you can transform your afternoon tea into a sophisticated and memorable culinary experience. Remember that the key lies in selecting high-quality ingredients, paying attention to flavour combinations and textures, and presenting your creations beautifully. With a little creativity and attention to detail, your savoury afternoon tea will be a resounding success, leaving your guests thoroughly impressed and wanting more. So, go ahead and experiment, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy the process of creating a truly unforgettable afternoon tea spread.