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This past week I caught Season 1, Episode 1 of Downton Abbey on TV. I never really had time to watch this PBS series during its original run, except for a quick partial look at an episode now and then, not necessarily understanding the who, what, and why's of what was happening. So with the Stay-at-Home circumstances these past few months, the first episode of the series was a timely and lovely accident.
Goodness, it was a shock to me that the series started 11 years ago. By the end of S1, E1, I was hooked, from beginning to end. Now I can belatedly understand the almost cult status of the series followers. Binge-watching is now in my vocabulary since I finished watching all the episodes today for all 6 seasons.
It is a gorgeous series that brought back wonderful memories of my time in England. The grand setting of Downton Abbey, the beautiful women's clothes changing styles through the years, the British Empire's context on the world stage, the relationships, and the beauty of the countryside . . . all evoke the customs and history of this grand country.
One delicious British custom is Tea Time. Lovely and yummy. When I attended Nikki and Neil's 2016 wedding in England, it was followed by a Reception Tea.
I know many people here in the U.S. have been to a Tea Party, but until that reception, I had never seen such a big bowl of Devonshire Cream in my life. That the bowl was right next to me on the table made me wonder how many scones I'd have to eat to best enjoy the bounty before me.
Once in a while, if I have scones at home, I'll make a simple version of Devonshire (Clotted) Cream to bring a touch of elegance to my breakfast or brunch.
Clotted Devonshire Cream
1 cup heavy cream
1-1/2 cups sour cream
3 Tbsp powdered sugar
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream together with sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in sour cream until blended.
The cream's production was originally associated with dairy farming in southwest England, in Devon and Cornwall. It is derived from indirect heating by steaming or in a water bath. As it cools in pans, the thick cream rises to the top. Cornish clotted cream became a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) by European Union directive, as long as the milk is produced in Cornwall and the minimum fat content is 55%.
While this article has been about Tea Time in England, it is just one destination to consider for your next vacation. When you're ready to go or need assistance to curate and book any travel interest, contact: Debbie@ClassicTravelGourmet.com.