Introduction to Afternoon Tea Traditions

Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla, shares intriguing insights into the royal family’s cherished tea ritual in his recently published book, Cooking and the Crown: Royal Recipes from Queen Victoria to King Charles III. This 49-year-old food writer reveals how this long-standing tradition, observed at 5 p.m., symbolizes more than just a leisurely drink—it is a refined dining experience.

The Essence of the Royal 5 O’Clock Tea

According to Parker Bowles, this ritual is “of primary importance” to the royal family. It encompasses a meal that consists not only of tea but also a delightful array of sandwiches, two varieties of cake, scones, biscuits, along with shrimp and eggs. This meal reflects the rich culinary history that the royals have embraced over generations. Notably, even as the monarchy has modernized, this tradition endures, showcasing a blend of comfort and sophistication.

Expanding on Royal Culinary Heritage

In his book, Parker Bowles highlights 100 accessible recipes that showcase dishes favored by past and present royals, including the late Queen Elizabeth. He believes that food serves as a prism through which one can view aspects of history, society, and economics. Moreover, the focus on family traditions brings warmth to the often enigmatic world of British royalty. Parker Bowles’ children, Lola and Freddy, enjoy a close relationship with their grandparents, affectionately referred to as “gaga” and “uppa” by the young ones. The affection shared within the family hints at the importance of these rituals beyond just culinary values.