Dining at Downton: What to eat while watching Season 3

I'm counting down the days until the premiere of Season 3 of Downton Abbey in the U.S. this Sunday night. I've been steadfast, refusing to watch uploaded episodes from the U.K. or to search down spoilers. And yesterday my excitement reached epic proportions: while I was driving to work, NPR's Morning Edition interviewed the actors who play Lord and Lady Grantham and Carson the butler. When they announced the interview, I shrieked.

Thank goodness for the privacy of my car.

I'm not alone. Lately it seems every newspaper and online journal features articles about the history behind Season 3, gossip about the stars, and, of course, what foods to eat while watching the premiere. (In case you're wondering: Season 3 takes place in the early 1920s. Expect daring fashions and continued rationing.)

I've compiled a collection of articles and blog posts recommending what to serve at a Downton Abbey viewing party (even if your viewing party consists of just yourself). Some are more historical than others, but it's all a matter of taste (heh).

• "Downton Abbey: What to eat while you're watching (Washington Post). While not strictly Edwardian, these recipes maintain the flavor and fads of the time. And some are downright inviting. I'm looking at you, Irish Whiskey Cake.


• Your Online Guide to Hosting a Downton Abbey-Themed Emmy Party (Downton Abbey Cooks). Okay, it's not time for the Emmy Awards, but the food recommendations on this site are fantastic. Blogger Pamela Foster researches recipes of the period and updates them for health-conscious cooks.


• The Food of Downton Abbey: Edwardian Brown Butter Bread (The Examiner). A rich dessert bread that the Crawleys might have served.


• Food in Downton Abbey (Epicurious). Featuring a few modern British recipes inspired by the show.


• "Downton Abbey" food reflects social classes of 20th century England (The State-Journal Register). Lo and behold, there's an Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook! And a recipe for split pea soup! Apparently I am not alone in my weird enthusiasms!

As for me, I'll be serving oysters, based on a recipe from Mrs. Beeton, that Victorian domestic goddess. The Edwardians loved oysters, and for me they're a rare treat. I'll tell you how they turn out next week.

Do you have any special plans for the premiere of Season 3? I'd love to hear!