The Art of Tea: Cream or Milk - A Question of Tradition

When it comes to enjoying tea, the choice between cream and milk is a matter of personal taste, tradition, and regional preferences. In this article, we explore the nuances between the two, discussing which is traditionally used and why.

Traditions and Preferences

Whipped cream is often used with scones in an English high tea. This creamy delight, served with jam and clotted cream, complements the sweet flavors beautifully. However, whether you add milk or leave it out is entirely up to your own taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, adding milk to your tea is a popular choice. Those who have a sweet tooth might opt for condensed milk, but it's generally best to avoid using cream directly in the tea, especially if you value the appearance and taste of your teeth!

Milk in Tea: The Standard Choice

Milk is the traditional choice for most types of tea. It helps to balance the bitterness of black tea, enhance the flavor of green tea, and adds a creamy consistency. In the United States, a simple serving of milk with tea is often preferred.

The Case Against Tea and Cream

Encountering a situation where someone tries to add cream to their tea is indeed shocking for those who are deeply invested in tea culture. In fact, using cream in tea is a common faux pas even among those who grew up in regions where tea and milk are widely consumed. As a former hitchhiker who experienced this firsthand in Florence, Italy, the waiter’s urgency to prevent me from adding cream to my tea is a testament to how strictly this tradition is upheld.

Types of Cream and Milk

When it comes to choosing between different types of cream and milk, the options are diverse. Regular whipped cream, heavy cream, light cream, and even evaporated milk are all used depending on the tea and the occasion. For a traditional cream tea, Cornish clotted cream and jam are typically applied to scones, while milk is used in the drink.

A Cream Tea Experience

A cream tea is not just a cup of tea; it's an event with its own set of customs and traditions. This variant of afternoon tea often includes a selection of delicate sandwiches, scones, and of course, fresh cream for topping your scones. A cream tea is an event better enjoyed in a lounging environment, rather than just a casual drink with cream in it.

Remember, whether you savor your tea with a splash of milk, cream for the scone, or not at all, the most important thing is to enjoy it. So, the next time you partake in a cup of tea, embrace the tradition of adding milk, and savor the rich flavors that it brings to your tea.