If you haven’t been counting down or have just plain forgotten, today is the day!!!! That is right, Season 4 of Downton Abbey starts tonight for the lucky U.K. viewers. (The rest of the world will be watching the cast of Downton Abbey at the Primetime Emmys. Of course, we will also be outwardly jealous of our U.K. friends.) The show can be seen at 9 p.m. on ITV.
According to the ITV website,
The fourth series sees the family reeling in the aftermath of terrible tragedy but with new life, in the form of babies George and Sybbie, comes new hope, as the much-loved characters take tentative steps into the Roaring Twenties.
If you haven’t planned your viewing party menu, might I suggest the following to set the proper tone:
Appetizers
Deviled Eggs. A staple on Edwardian appetizer platters, according to blogger Pamela Foster.
Broiled Oysters With Peach and Paprika. The bivalves were another Edwardian favorite.
Main courses
Basic Roast Chicken. Mrs. Patmore, the cook, saw hers fall on the floor.
Beef and Guinness Stew. Fitting for the downstairs staff.
Hearty Beef Pot Roast With Red Wine and Thyme. Stereotype or not, it’s still a classic.
Shepherd’s Pie. Something else that might be enjoyed in the servants’ hall.
Shiitake Beef Wellingtons. Every guest gets his or her own phyllo-enclosed packet.
Desserts
Irish Whiskey Cake. Show solidarity with Branson the chauffeur’s advocacy for Irish independence.
Victoria Sandwich Cake. A very British dessert named after the famed queen.
White House Sticky Toffee Pudding. This take on the British treat comes from White House executive pastry chef Bill Yosses.
Happy Viewing!!!
The Downton Dame 