THE style of rich cream produced from the pastures of Devon (Britain) is responsible for the name given to that ever-so-slightly-lovely afternoon tea we know as Devonshire Tea !
The FORERUNNER of Devonshire Tea was Cream Tea . . . but, when it made the journey halfway around the world in the early 20th century, certain adjustments were made to enhance the pleasure: Scones became lighter and larger, cream became fluffier and more abundant and raspberry jam was used for the quintessential Devonshire Tea.
The word 'tea' does not necessarily dictate the beverage to be taken with your scones, jam and cream, but rather suggests the time of day at which it is traditional to pause for the respite.
DEVONSHIRE Tea can be enjoyed equally with a variety of beverages from tea and coffee to hot chocolate or your favourite libation. Enjoyment is paramount.
UNDOUBTEDLY in the 1920's, hospitality at Sherbrooke House was often accompanied by Devonshire Tea. Devonshire Tea is recognised as a specialty of The Dandenongs in Victoria; Australia.
THIS scone recipe has been used for more than half a century by a long-time hills resident, who often says to unexpected guests..."it will only take a few moments to pop in a batch of scones".
Sherbrooke House (*if it still exists ?/probably does.k.) prepares and bakes scones based upon the following classic recipe, although at Sherbrooke House the batches are somewhat larger.
The yield from this recipe is approximately 12 scones.
. 2 cups self-raising flour
. 1/2 teaspoon salt
. 2 tablespoons cream - for the lightness
. Water/milk mixture - enough to make a dough
PLACE dry ingredients in a bowl, then add cream and water/milk mixture until dough is a good kneading consistency. Turn dough out onto floured surface and gently flatten until dough is about 1" (2.5cm) thick. Use 2-1/2" (6cm) cutter to form scones and place onto a lightly floured hot oven-tray. Bake in a hot oven, near the top, for about 8-9 minutes, until browning begins. Serve while still warm.
SHERBROOKE HOUSE
Sherbrooke Road at Poets Lane, Sherbrooke 3789
Telephone: (03) 755 2044 Facsimile: (03) 755 2089
Sherbrooke House IS the Dandenongs.
Bon Apetit
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