Menu: Sense and Sensibility
This carefully crafted menu transports you into the world of Jane Austen, her family, her stories, and the refined charm of the Regency era. To stat, sip on a refreshing Gin Austen, enjoy a dish inspired by an Austen family favorite, and treat your taste buds to a feast even Mr. Darcy would approve of.
Drinks
Kick things off with a delightful cocktail called the Gin Austen. It’s a refreshing mix of gin and lillet rosé, taken from Colleen Mullaney’s book Gin Austen, which features 50 cocktails based on Austen’s novels. Looking for variety? Try the Gin & Bennett cocktail by Jos. A. Magnus & Co. Alternatively, for a proper English twist, sip on the Earl Grey tea and gin cocktail from Literary Salon. Cheers to Jane Austen!
Appetizers
Discover the culinary delights Jane Austen herself might have enjoyed. Start with Bath Olivers, a crisp, savory cracker created by William Oliver, an 18th-century physician from Bath. He first invented the richer Bath bun, then followed it with the lighter, more refined Bath Oliver. You’ll find a great recipe for the crackers on History Extra. Or for a sweeter option, try baking Bath buns from Jane Austen. No time to bake? Assemble a charcuterie plate with cheeses, meats, fruits, and store-bought crackers for an easy, elegant start.
Soup
Indulge in a taste of Jane Austen’s family history with a vibrant bowl of fresh pea soup. This flavorful favorite comes from the household recipe book of Martha Lloyd, Jane’s close friend and later sister-in-law. It offers a simple yet charming glimpse into everyday Regency-era cooking. You can make it vegetarian by skipping the anchovies, or add crumbled bacon for a savory twist. Find the full recipe at 12 Tomatoes.
Dessert
Conclude your literary feast with a rich Jane Austen Brown Butter Bread Pudding Tart from Paper and Salt. Feeling adventurous? Try making a flummery. It’s a delicate white jelly dessert topped with fruit puree. You’ll find the recipe for this elegant treat on History Extra.
As you immerse yourself in Sense and Sensibility or any other Jane Austen masterpiece, let this thoughtfully crafted menu transport you and your guests to the elegance of the Regency period. Happy reading, happy cooking, and may your book club conversations be as rich and lively as the stories that inspired them.
