Why is Tea Called Dinner Sometimes in Britain?

As the hours until the evening meal stretched longer and longer for the upper classes, women at home needed another meal to tide themselves over, say Fromer. So tea moved from an after-dinner social occasion to one that came before dinner.

The Rise of High Tea

Lower-class or working-class people started to call this meal high tea, particularly to distinguish it from just tea. High tea came to be known as a more substantial meal served at the dinner table and eaten later in the day. This term is often used to describe a more wholesome meal of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, typically enjoyed after a long day of work.

The Evolution of Tea Time

Tea time, often thought to be around 5 pm, varied depending on the worker's daily schedule. For those who ate lunch during the day, 'dinner' referred to the meal they ate after arriving home. However, for those who had their main meal in the middle of the day, 'tea' became the evening meal.

High Tea vs. Afternoon Tea

While in many households today 'dinner' is a more formal meal eaten at the end of the day, 'dinner' itself can still mean different things depending on where you live. In some working-class homes, it might simply mean a meal served as soon as the kettle is put on.

High tea is distinctly different from the afternoon tea that Brits now all know and love. Afternoon tea typically includes delicate pastries, little sandwiches, scones, and cakes, often served with cream and jam. In contrast, high tea is a more substantial meal, comprising larger quantities of food such as meat, potatoes, and vegetables.

Some people have an early dinner, around 4:30 pm, with a tea and a slice of cake at around 8:30 pm. On Sundays, when many households have a large lunch, they might have tea with cold cuts from the roast in sandwiches and cakes, plus a pot of tea.

The Place of Tea in British Cuisine

While tea is often a central part of the meal, the term 'dinner' can vary widely depending on local customs and time of year. In some working-class homes, 'tea' simply means the main meal of the day, regardless of the time it is served. For instance, in rural areas or in the military, people might frequently refer to their main meal of the day as 'tea'.

For many working-class Brits, 'tea' is a time for family, food, and relaxation, often served with whatever is available at the moment. This could range from simple boiled potatoes and peas to more elaborate meats and vegetables, all washed down with a nice cup of tea, at any time of day.

Conclusion

Whether it's high tea, afternoon tea, or simply 'tea,' this mid-day meal is a cherished part of British culture. It's a display of home-cooked meals, socializing, and tradition, all woven into the fabric of daily life.

Understanding the nuances of these tea times is key to appreciating the rich tapestry of British cuisine and customs. From the stiff upper lip of afternoon tea to the hearty, filling nature of high tea, each meal offers a unique glimpse into the hearts and homes of Brits.

So, the next time you hear someone calling their meal 'tea,' it's not just about the beverage; it's a deep-rooted tradition that spans generations and reflects the diverse culinary landscape of Britain.