The Tradition of the Cornish Cream Tea: A Taste of Cornwall's Rich Heritage
Cornwall, a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and a proud cultural heritage, is famous for many things. Among its most delectable traditions is the Cornish cream tea, a beloved treat that has won the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through time and taste to explore the rich tradition of the Cornish cream tea.
Origins: An Age-Old Debate
The precise origin of the cream tea is a matter of friendly dispute between the neighboring counties of Devon and Cornwall. Both claim to have birthed this delightful tradition, characterized by a steaming pot of tea, soft scones, silky clotted cream, and sweet jam. While Devonians argue that cream should be spread first followed by jam on their scones, the Cornish stand firmly by their preference of jam first, then cream. No matter which side you're on, one thing's for certain – the Cornish cream tea has become an iconic symbol of the region.
The Perfect Scone: Made with Love
At the heart of the Cornish cream tea is the scone. These small, round, and slightly sweet baked goods are a testament to Cornwall's exceptional culinary prowess. They're typically made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and a touch of magic, or so it seems. The real secret lies in the hands of skilled bakers, often using locally sourced ingredients, and in the time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations.
The Cream of the Crop: Clotted Cream
Central to the cream tea's irresistible allure is clotted cream, a thick, silky, and indulgent dairy product. It's created by heating cow's milk slowly, allowing the cream to rise to the surface and form a golden, delicious crust. This rich delicacy is a true Cornish specialty, with local producers like Roddas and Trewithen gaining international acclaim for their exquisite clotted cream. Whether it's Roddas or Trewithen, the quality of Cornish clotted cream is unmatched.
Cornish Strawberries: Nature's Sweetness
In the Cornish cream tea, the scones play a starring role, but the jam and clotted cream share the spotlight. Local strawberries are transformed into sweet, tangy jams that pair perfectly with the cream. The flavors of Cornish strawberries, grown under the sun of this southwestern county, infuse every spoonful with a taste of the region's fertile soil and pure love.
A Cream Tea with a View
When you enjoy a Cornish cream tea, it's not just about the food; it's about the setting. The rolling hills, rugged coastline, and charming tea rooms of Cornwall create an idyllic backdrop for this time-honored tradition. Whether you're sitting in a quaint tearoom, overlooking the sea, or picnicking on the cliffs, the experience is a sensory delight.
Bringing Cornwall to Your Doorstep
Now, you might be wondering how you can partake in this delightful tradition, even if you're not in Cornwall. That's where "From Cornwall with Love" comes in. Our cream tea gift boxes are designed to bring the heart of Cornwall to your doorstep. Each box is filled with the very best local scones, clotted cream, and jam, so you can savor the taste of Cornwall, no matter where you are.
In conclusion, the tradition of the Cornish cream tea is not just about food; it's a celebration of a culture, a way of life, and a deep connection to the land. It's a slice of Cornwall's heritage that we're proud to share with you. So, whether you spread your jam first or your cream, we invite you to experience the magic of the Cornish cream tea, one bite at a time.
From Cornwall with Love - Sharing the Taste of Cornwall, Delivered with Care.
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