Wimbledon, the prestigious tennis tournament held annually in London, is not only known for its world-class tennis matches. But, it is also known for its delectable signature dessert: Strawberries and Cream. This quintessential English treat has become an iconic symbol of the tournament, capturing the essence of summertime indulgence and elegance.
This English Treat Is Wimbledon’s Dessert Symbol
Wimbledon is not Wimbledon if u dont have strawberries and cream..yuummm 😋 pic.twitter.com/PQj8vTLCIK
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) June 29, 2013
Back in the 19th century, this tradition of serving strawberries and cream at Wimbledon began. Strawberries were in season during the tournament. Their availability coincided with the advent of railways, making it easier to transport this delicate fruit to London. The combination of strawberries and cream quickly became a popular choice among spectators. It has since become an integral part of the Wimbledon experience.
Strawberries and Cream have come to symbolise the elegance and tradition of Wimbledon. They are typically enjoyed in the warm summer months when the tournament takes place. Now, this dessert evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The dish has become so synonymous with Wimbledon that it has become a culinary tradition, eagerly anticipated by spectators and players alike.
The dish celebrates the natural flavours of ripe strawberries and the smoothness of fresh cream, allowing them to shine without the need for excessive embellishment. The balance of sweet and tart, combined with the creamy richness, creates a harmonious blend of flavours that is both refreshing and satisfying.
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Serving These Strawberries & Cream Is An Art
Free strawberries & cream for customers at the #HSBC booth at #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/YDh5FDbZkl
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 26, 2014
The simplicity of this dessert is part of its charm. Fresh, ripe strawberries are carefully selected for their sweetness and juiciness. The cream, often referred to as “double cream” or “clotted cream,” is a rich and indulgent accompaniment. It is thick, velvety, and has a slightly sweet taste. This makes it the perfect complement to the tartness of the strawberries.
When it comes to serving this classic dessert, Wimbledon takes great care to ensure that every element is of the highest quality. The strawberries are meticulously inspected to ensure that only the finest specimens make it to the courts. The cream, often sourced from local farms, is whipped to perfection and delicately dolloped over the strawberries.
The combination of the vibrant red fruit and the snowy white cream creates an eye-catching contrast that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
While strawberries and cream may have humble beginnings, it has grown to become an iconic dessert that embodies the spirit of Wimbledon.
Cover image credits: Canva
First Published: July 18, 2023 3:26 PM