When I was three years old, my family moved to Nairobi, Kenya. Because it was a former British colony, the culture had a lot of British influence, including the practice of afternoon tea at 4pm. I grew up with this habit, and to this day still favor a nice cup of tea — although not restricted to the afternoon!
This is why I was attracted to Will Torrent’s book Afternoon Tea at Home, the goal of which is to “bring the elegance of afternoon tea to your table at home.”
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book for review, however I am under no obligation to write about it positively or otherwise.
Summary of Afternoon Tea at Home
This beautifully photographed book provides “deliciously indulgent recipes for sandwiches, savouries, scones, cakes and other fancies.” The recipes are upscale and will help you make a favorable impression on your guests.
What Worked for Me
This is a perfect coffee table book. It is beautiful to look through and I look forward to giving many of the recipes a try. The content is organized by seasons, and my occasion. If you want to have a classic afternoon tea, this book has you covered. If you want to have a more special or seasonal affair, this book’s got you covered, as well. In the back of the book are 14 suggested menus for occasions ranging from birthday part to Gentleman’s tea to Thanksgiving treats. Whatever the occasion, you’ll find something in Afternoon Tea at Home that will suit your needs.
What Didn’t Work for Me
Because this is more of a coffee table book, it isn’t all that practical for the kitchen. It’s ungainly size (8.5 x 10 inches) and pages that don’t always lie flat, will make it a challenge to actually use. But I’m sure if you’re motivated enough, you’ll overcome that, too.
Recommendation
This book is perfect for lovers of the traditional afternoon tea. If you’re an Anglophile, you’ll enjoy perusing the pages for classic and elegant recipes. If you are an arm-chair cookbook collector, this book will make a beautiful addition to your collection. And, if you’re a motivated cook, you’ll probably find a way to try out the recipes within — without making a mess of the book in the process.
Rating for Afternoon Tea at Home
Specs:
Format: Hardback, 176 pages
Publisher: Ryland Peters & Small (February 11, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 184975702X
ISBN-13: 978-1849757027
