A Conversation About Tea--Part 4

I had promised to talk about the different types of tea this time, but a friend of mine has already covered the subject and says it better than I could. So, I am directing those who would love a good read about tea to Tea Party Girl's blog.

The menu

A successful tea is one in which the setting is attractive, the food is appealing, and the atmosphere is one of graciousness and amiability. Remember, a tea can be anything from toast for two to a beautiful cream tea.

Classically, though, a tea is structured as a three course-meal of sandwiches, scones, and desserts, served with jams, clotted (Devonshire) cream, and honey.

You can find recipes for tea sandwiches, scones, cakes, and more in many cookbooks, on the internet, and in my favorite magazine--Tea Time.

Here are a few of my favorite recipes:

Cranberry Scones
1½ cups flour

¼ cup sugar

3 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons butter

1 egg

¼ cup cream

¼ cup milk

¼ cup dried sweetened cranberries

Preheat oven to 350 F.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Stir. Cut butter into flour mixture until crumbly.
In another bowl, mix egg, cream and milk. Add flour mixture. Mix together until a smooth dough is formed. Gently stir in cranberries.
Divide dough in half. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out each half to a 5-inch diameter circle. Brush tops with cream and sprinkle lightly with sugar. Cut each circle into four wedges. Place wedges one inch apart on a greased baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Makes 8 scones.

Raisin Scones

3 cups all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch pieces

1 cup raisins

3 eggs, divided

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon milk, divided

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Spray a large baking sheet with vegetable-oil cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. With a pastry blender or two knives, cut butter into flour mixture until particles are the size of small peas; stir in raisins. In a medium bowl, beat 2 eggs lightly with 1 cup milk. Add to flour mixture; stir just until mixed.

On a lightly floured surface, knead dough gently. Pat or roll out the dough into a circle 1/2-inch thick. Using a lightly greased and floured 3-inch biscuit cutter, cut into rounds, cutting close together to generate as few scraps as possible. Dip cutter into flour as often as necessary to keep dough from sticking. Push scraps of dough together so that edges join; firmly pinch edges with fingertips to make a partial seal. Pat this remaining dough to 1/2-inch thick; continue to cut 3-inch rounds. Space 1-inch apart onto prepared baking sheet. NOTE: When making scones, work the dough quickly and do not over mix.

In a small bowl, combine 1 egg and 1 tablespoon milk; brush onto scones. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and serve warm.
Yields 12 to 14 scones.

Mock Devonshire Cream

(Makes 12-14 servings.)
1 cup whipping cream

1- 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

½ cup powdered sugar

1 -8 oz. carton dairy sour cream

In medium mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. In separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and sour cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Fold in whipped cream. Refrigerate until serving time.

Walnut Tea Sandwich

1 1/2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup ground toasted walnuts

2 tablespoons finely minced fresh parsley

1 tablespoon finely minced green bell pepper

1 tablespoon finely minced onion

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg (or more to taste)

Salt and white pepper to taste

24 slices best-quality white bread

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, walnuts, parsley, and bell pepper. Add onion, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; stir until well blended.
Spread one side of each piece of bread lightly with butter. Top the buttered side of 12 slices of bread with some of the cream cheese mixture and top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side down.

Carefully cut the crusts from each sandwich with a sharp knife. Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and then cut in half again.

Yields 12 whole sandwiches or 24 halves or 48 fourths.

Chicken Salad Sandwich

4 cups cubed, cooked chicken
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup creamy salad dressing, e.g. Miracle Whip ™
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
1 cup halved green grapes
1 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts

In a large bowl, toss the chicken with the lemon juice. Cover and chill for 2 hours.
Mix the salad dressing, salt, pineapple, grapes, pecans, and water chestnuts into the chicken until evenly combined. Chill until serving

Spread one side of each piece of bread lightly with butter. Top the buttered side of 8 slices of bread with some of the chicken mixture and top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side down.
Carefully cut the crusts from each sandwich with a sharp knife. Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and then cut in half again. Yields 8 whole sandwiches or 16 halves or 32 fourths.

Laura's Shortbread

1 cup butter
1/2 cup white sugar
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
Cream butter and sugar together. Add flour and salt, stir until blended. Roll out 1/2 inch thick on floured board and cut into shapes with small (2 inch) cutters.
Bake for 50 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar. Makes 2 dozen.

Lemon Macaroon Tartlet

2 cups sweetened, flaked coconut
1/2 cup white sugar
3/8 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 egg whites
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup sweetened, flaked coconut

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease 24 mini muffin cups.
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups coconut, sugar, flour, vanilla and egg whites; stir well. Divide mixture evenly among the prepared mini muffin cups, pressing mixture into bottom and up sides of muffin cups (use cooking spray on hands to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands).
Bake in the preheated 400 degree F (200 degrees C) oven until the edges are browned. Cool 2 minutes in the muffin tins on a wire rack. Remove from tins and cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare lemon pudding mix according to package instructions. Spoon lemon mixture into each macaroon tartlet shell. Top with 2 teaspoons of whipped topping sprinkled with 1/2 teaspoon coconut.

A Conversation About Tea--Part 3

Choosing a tea

Tea is basically the dried and processed leaves of only one species of plant called camellia sinensis. (Herbal teas are not really teas, but simply dried flowers and/or herbs.)

Processing tea is where many of the subtleties in taste, body, and overall character are created. It involves taking the raw green leaves and deciding whether or not, and how much oxidation (or fermentation) should take place before drying them out. Tea leaves have enzymes in their veins. When the leaf is broken, bruised, or crushed, the enzymes are exposed to the air resulting in oxidation.

There are four main methods of processing and each produces a different type of tea. These four main types are: White tea, green tea, black tea, and Oolong tea. All are available loose or in tea bags. I prefer loose teas, but it is a personal preference. (I'll post a bit about each type of tea in our next visit.)

If brewing a solitary cup, I use a tea infuser spoon. Fill halfway with the loose tea of your choice and place in your cup. Add boiling water and let steep according to tea recommendations and to taste.

To brew a pot, use a larger tea ball or just put the tea directly into the pot and use a tea strainer when you pour. Use 1 teaspoon of loose tea per cup plus 1 extra. Place in the pot, add boiling water, and let steep according to tea recommendations and to taste.

I hope you have time to enjoy a cup (or a pot) of tea today!

A Conversation About Tea--Part 2

The setting

The tea table should be a reflection of the mood you would like to set. Having a themed tea provides an opportunity to be creative with accessories and centerpieces. Use cloth napkins, fresh flowers (perhaps arranged in a teapot), place cards, and silver or silver-plate utensils.

A tea cozy will keep your tea warm and add ambiance.

Tea towels look lovely and protect your tablecloth from drips.

A thoughtfully set tea table encourages conversation and makes your guests feel pampered.

Even a solitary cup of tea can become a time of refreshment to body and mind when served with a linen napkin and a special demitasse spoon!

A Conversation About Tea

People have asked me why I would have a shop devoted to tea clothing and accoutrements. They simply don’t understand what could possibly be that important about drinking tea. Patiently, I explain to them that teatime is more than just the physical aspect of drinking a beverage. It’s the whole process that I love. Simply put, having tea is a way to bring elegance into every day living.

One cup or a pot? Think “Elegance.”
Are you brewing a cup for yourself or inviting a friend or friends to have tea with you? Whether making a single cup or a pot, think “elegance”. I have a variety of bone china teacups and mugs that I love to use. I love the graceful look and feel of china. There’s nothing like it to add a touch of elegance and romance to your day!

If serving tea to a group, don’t worry if you don’t have a matched set of teacups and saucers. Mismatched sets make lovely conversation starters. And don’t worry if your teapot doesn’t match your teacups. A similar theme or color will work together. For instance, I collect teacups and teapots with roses. They do not have to be the same pattern to look beautiful together. (You could also host a “Bring Your Own Teacup” Tea. Each guest brings their favorite teacup and shares a little information about it.)

More tomorrow...

New Short Sleeved Version of Crinkled Under Dress

Romantic Crinkled Under Dress with Lace-Trimmed Sleeves

This sweet, full-length under dress is designed to be worn in many ways. Some of the ways include: with a button-front skirt, with or without a light jacket; under a jumper; or under one of my pinafore aprons. Constructed of heat-set crinkled ecru polyester. A lace appliqué at the neckline and 4-inch Venice lace on sleeves and at the hem add a romantic touch to any outfit! 51 ” from shoulder to hem. Available in sizes 8-16 (up to a 40” bust and 42” hip). Hand wash. Just too lovely!

As always, check my website for pricing and availability. www.SweetNecessi-Teas.com

Just for Fun!

One of my dear sweet Pink Sisters, Dianne from Mama's Pocketbook tagged me a few weeks ago for a fun game of Blog Tag. I dropped the ball and never posted, but thought I would share my list anyway—just for fun! Here's how it works ... each player starts with 7 random weird facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!So, here's my list of fun facts about me:

1. I am the runt of the family. My dh is 6'4", my 18 yr old son is 6', my 14 yr old daughter is 5'6", and I come in at just under 5'2".
2. I am directionally challenged (a type of dyslexia), and have lots of fun getting lost. But I know more shortcuts than anybody I know because I have to find my way home after being lost! My dh always asks me for shortcuts!
3. I have a photographic memory for color and measurements. I never take paint or fabric swatches with me or take a tape measure. I just know...
4. I live in a pink Victorian House.
5. I have never lived outside of Texas, but wouldn't be opposed to it--especially east coast.
6. I dream of having a Bed and Breakfast with a tea room/gift shop to sell my SweetNecessi-Teas products.
7. I have been involved in a love affair for years--with fabrics and textiles. It's my addiction!

I’m not tagging anyone—just thought it might spark some other players out there!

New Pink Purse!

I have had this idea rolling around in my head for awhile. I love pink and just wanted a girlie purse for the summer. I finally had some alone time yesterday to put the idea together and this is what I came up with:

The front is a patchwork of chenille and flannel squares. The back and lining are coordinating polka dot and gingham cotton prints. There are 2 pockets--1 inside and 1 outside. Details include: clear plastic handles; pink ombre ribbon rose on closure flap (velcro under tab); white eyelet and pink ribbon handle loops; white eyelet/pink ribbon ruffle trim on front; and a decorative button on outside pocket. The purse measures 10"h x 12"w x 3 1/2"d.

It's not on my website yet, but it will be tomorrow. I have fabric for only a few more like it--this one is mine! I am thinking about adding a smaller version for a Mother/Daughter. Just need to find a suitable handle for the smaller size...

Lots and Lots of New Pretties!

I have been so busy the last couple of weeks that my blog (and shop) has been neglected. As many of you know, I am the mother of 2 teenagers. My oldest just graduated from High School on May 26th. All the preparations, company and reception afterward took up a good amount of my time. Then, just after that, my daughter had Tech Week for her Dance Recital on Friday. Whew! It's finally behind us and I can relax---um-m-m, that is, get back to my shop and blog.

What's new? Lots and lots of pretties just came in. Just look at these gorgeous tea cups, teapots and tea-for-one sets from Porcelain Treasures:

Also, I just listed a new Lissi Kaplan Forget-Me-Not Tea Set. This one comes with a tidbit plate. Shown with it is a sweet little porcelain tea cup and saucer called Victorian White (available separately). Too sweet!
As always, check my shop at www.SweetNecessi-Teas.com for pricing and availability. Happy shopping!

A Mother-Daughter Tea

Mothers and daughters have a special bond. There is nothing like the sweet time my daughter and I spent together during her childhood years. Some of my favorites memories include the special private tea parties that we had in the afternoon before big brother came home from school.

I had bartered a vest made with antique linens for a child's tea set that matched my grandmother's china. We would put the kettle on and prepare the sugar, milk, and a snack while the water boiled. We made tea in a larger pot, then transfered some into my daughters teapot. I poured and she would proudly add just a tiny spoonful of sugar and a "tad" of milk to each cup of tea. When the tea was ready, we would practice our manners, talk about girl things and have a cookie or two. I'll never forget her asking me if I would like the last cookie. I always said "no", but she always asked me--"just to be polite".

Sometimes we dressed up just for fun. I had bought some "dress-up" dresses at garage sales and she loved to pick one for me and one for her. Add beads, fancy hats, and make-up to the mix and we were quite a sight to behold! And we had so much fun!

When she was five, she chose to have her birthday party at a tea room that specialized in tea parties for children. It was the best party she ever had. She wore a green dress complete with feather boa and hat. Oh, those memories....

My baby is 14 now--going to high school next year. We don't have tea parties anymore, but she still loves to go to tea rooms with me on an occasional Saturday outing. We shop at the antique mall, then have tea and dessert before heading home. She is still a girly girl at heart, but wouldn't like her friends to know. But, I know and she knows. We just have that mother and daughter bond from years of having tea...

MakeMinePink on eBay

Please join us for the most 'shabulous' pink auction on eBay. All of the items being offered are generously being provided for sale by the boutique owners at Make Mine Pink for our Pink Diamond auction event!From handmade, hand sewn, handpainted, and embroidered, to vintage,antique, gift certificates, and of course, PINK, we offer you a wide range of Shabby cottage chic, romantic, elegant, gorgeously handpainted, handsewn, and treasured vintage collectibles! Be sure to put us on your watchlist as we will be listing all weekend!

To visit the MMP Auctions~ Click here.

What is the "Pink Diamond Event?" Visit Make Mine Pink to find out! You can't miss it!

Just a personal note: Be sure to check out the Tea Apron and coordinating Dome Style Tea Cozy that I created especially for the auction. They are one-of-a-kind and oh-so-divine!