Tailgating Downton Style

The Super Bowl has a formidable rival: Downton Abbey.Yet we can look to this new English classic for inspiration for a better sort of tailgating nibble. Instead of the usual messy, sauce laden grub we can dine finely. The foods aren't that complicated.They're actually just perfect for the big game. For true Downton Abbey style you may want to serve with actual silverware,plates and linens.Paper plates and plastic sporks can be seen as déclassé and not worthy of the upper crust(although if you have a sizeable crowd ,forget all the conventions and go with the easiest - the disposables). English picnics start with a cold roast chicken, ham and roast beef.You can easily get a whole roasted bird at your grocery and leave it in the fridge until serving time.Get fresh sliced London Broil and ham at the same store deli counter and serve on the smaller slices of what's known as party bread.If you want to add a touch of tea party, then add egg salad and watercress.A nice side is sliced cucumbers dressed with a dill infused sour cream. For appetizers ,think prawn cocktails with a spicy horseradish based sauce.This is just simple chilled glass rimmed with shrimp with the sauce in the middle. For sheer whimsy you can serve both angels on horseback or devils on horseback.These are strangely British and may take some getting used to.Angels on horseback are bacon wrapped around oysters while devils are bacon slices wrapped around figs or dates.Make it more palatable by subbing in hot dogs for the oysters and figs.You can also have a tray of good cheeses such as Stilton and cheddar with crackers and port. to finish up think about an easy to make trifle using any kind of cake and pudding or better yet, Eton mess.This is a fun jumble of fruit, pudding and cake or cookies mashed together with a topping of whipped cream. Try a civilized tailgate party tomorrow by drawing from Downton Abbey.This Super Bowl rival can give you some great nibbles.What a perfect way to celebrate with class!