The sandwiches were cut into small circles known as "pennies," because of the size of the old English pennies, he said in the video.
People say that old habits die hard, and one such habit that Queen Elizabeth II has had ever since she was five years old is to have a jam sandwich every day, according to her former chef. The revelation was made by Darren McGrady, who was Queen Elizabeth's personal chef for 15 years, as well as Princess Diana's and Princes William and Harry's, per Daily Mail.
The chef posted a video explaining how to make sandwiches similar to those served at Buckingham Palace and how to create your own royal afternoon tea at home. McGrady, who has worked at the palace ever since he was a young boy, spoke about how there would be parties hosted in the palace garden, with approximately 6,000 people in attendance.
However, the royal chefs only had to prepare food for the royal tea tent, and while the menu could change, the one thing that has to be a staple was the "jam penny," something that the Queen has eaten for afternoon tea every single day since she began munching on them as a five-year-old girl. The chef said the timeless recipe was "just bread and jam with a little butter, usually strawberry jam."
"We'd make the jam at Balmoral Castle with gorgeous Scottish strawberries from the gardens," he said. The slices of bread were then sandwiched together and further cut into small circles. These were known as "pennies," because of the size of the old English pennies, he said in the video.
Other common sandwich fillings for afternoon tea included cucumber with mint cream cheese, and tomato and cheese.
The chef shared the video with a beautiful description: "Imagine being able to tour Buckingham Palace and then enjoy the same authentic afternoon tea sandwiches and pastries served to The Queen and Royal Family. Well, now you can! It's time to 'start baking and pack your picnic.' Even if you aren't able to enjoy on the pristine lawns at Buckingham Palace, these dishes will make your afternoon tea a royal event! Royal tea sandwiches, strawberries and cream, pastries, and the perfect Ice Machine!"
"The Queen has opened the Buckingham Palace gardens to the public for the first time ever and people are now welcome to enjoy a picnic on the palace lawns," it concluded.
Several people left comments under the video, praising the chef for the information. One person commented: "The weird thing is, going school in England anyone who had jam sandwiches was called poor! And here I am finding out the Queen eats them, wish I could show the bullies this haha! A lot of that food seems so simple but just is reminder there’s so much naturally nice things no need for all this Just Eat and Deliveroo!"
"I really love those tea sandwiches Darren. Thank you for sharing all of this fascinating information!" added another user.
References:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrT57PEKzOY
Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Jonathan Brady - WPA Pool
