Elegant high tea parties are the latest fad for cosy winter get-togethers

The high-tea is an exquisite experience, especially during the winter months when warmth and comfort are paramount. The tradition brings together a sumptuous spread of classic and contemporary delights featuring a mix of sweet and savoury treats, complemented by a selection of fine teas (Image: The Claridges New Delhi)

As winter approaches, the timeless tradition of high tea takes on a whole new level of warmth and indulgence. Whether is a hot cup of Masala Chai with crispy samosas or cardamom biscuits, a smooth Darjeeling Tea served with fresh cucumber sandwiches and almond tarts, or a shot of Espresso with chocolate biscotti and cappuccinos with buttery croissants, winter evenings are incomplete without a hearty warm beverage.

From delicate finger sandwiches to freshly baked pastries, bite-size nibbles make winter high-tea an unforgettable culinary affair among all age groups. Ankur Gulati, executive chef at The Claridges New Delhi, describes this experience perfectly, “The high-tea is an exquisite experience, especially during the winter months when warmth and comfort are paramount. The tradition brings together a sumptuous spread of classic and contemporary delights featuring a mix of sweet and savoury treats, complemented by a selection of fine teas.”

Leisure treats at sunset:

The freshly baked scones are a staple of any traditional high tea, and these classic British delights served with clotted cream and seasonal jams are just the perfect indulgence on a chilly winter afternoon. No high tea is complete without an array of finger sandwiches and sweet treats. Speaking about the high-tea pairing, Chef Gulati adds, “Curate some unique tea and coffee pairings keeping in mind a balance of taste and nutrition for a refined tea time experience. You can pair Green Tea with salted edamame or wasabi peas. For calming Herbal Tea like chamomile, honey oatcakes or almond biscuits are excellent choices, along with a dessert like apple tart or vanilla panna cotta. Flavoured Lattes are wonderfully complemented by vanilla shortbread, with dessert options like vanilla mousse or fruit tarts. For a more robust pairing, Indian filter coffee with idli or vada, and desserts like coconut barfi or banana bread is a great option.”

Winter high-tea at home:

For those looking to recreate a luxurious high tea experience at home, Chef Gulati suggests infusing creativity and personal touches to make the occasion truly special. He recommends, “Consider infusing teas with unique blends like lavender-chamomile or chai-citrus for a refreshing twist. For savory scones, use ingredients like cheddar and chive or sun-dried tomatoes. Add a global flair with matcha-infused macaroons, Japanese mochi, or Indian-spiced snacks for an exciting culinary fusion. For presentation, use vintage serving dishes and elegant tiered stands to evoke a timeless charm, and garnish dishes with edible flowers for an aromatic and colorful touch. Create a cosy atmosphere with seasonal décor, soft lighting, and background music. Personalise the experience by customising plates with name cards or small gifts like mini jam jars, and consider a DIY station for sandwiches or scone toppings, encouraging guests to create their own perfect treats.”

An array of sweet treats, especially a selection of croissants is always a hit with the Instagram-friendly guests. A mix of almond croissants, French butter croissants, Pain au Chocolat, cinnamon raisin Danish and hazelnut croissants can be served with all kinds of tea and coffee. You can also add a colourful array of seasonal fruits on skewers for easy snacking, and top it with crunchy nuts and seeds mix for a healthy finish.