How to Relish Tea with Tetsubin Cast Iron Tea Sets

How to Relish Tea with Tetsubin Cast Iron Tea Sets

How to Relish Tea with Tetsubin Cast Iron Tea Sets

History

Known as “Tetsubin” in Japan, cast iron teapots were originally crafted in the mid-17th century to accommodate the full leaf green teas. Tetsubin evolved through the 18th and 19th centuries as this form of tea drinking became more popular. These teapots became status symbols featuring intricate and symbolic designs. The Japanese believed this imparted a zen-like quality of peace and inspiration for the tea drinking ritual.

Craft

Today Tetsubin, with their fine raised symbolic designs, are admired and collected not only for their quiet beauty, but also for their ability to brew the perfect pot of tea. Forged by the oldest, most renowned iron producers in Japan, a fine Tetsubin is distinguished by the hand-crafted, high grade iron exterior and the smooth enameled interior. The completion of one Tetsubin requires the skill of 17 craftsmen. Use bamboo utensils with cast iron as they will not damage the enamel finish. Slight color transference is expected on brighter colored pots. Best yet, all teapots are lead free.

Tetsubin Technique

Tetsubin are crafted by the best manufacturers in Japan following hundreds of years of tradition and quality. These manufacturers combine traditional skills with modern technology to make exquisitely designed, useful, and convenient cast iron tea sets. All teapots display a traditional artistic “chop” demonstrating superior quality.

The artistic form of sand-casting iron teapots follow these steps:

• A two part mold is prepared in wet black sand.

• Molten iron ore is poured into the mold and allowed to cool.

• The sand mold is broken to release the teapot.

• Over 16 steps of finishing techniques are applied and rough edges smoothed and sanded.

• Inner surfaces are enamel coated.

• Outer surfaces are layered with lead-free paint.

• Contrasting color is artistically applied to outer surfaces and handles installed.

• In-depth quality control of each pot is performed and protective packaging is wrapped around each item.

Benefits

Cast iron keeps tea hot for an extended period of time. With use, the tea and water forms a mineral layer, enhancing the wonderful flavor of loose leaf tea. If properly cared for, cast iron teapots can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

Care & Use

Before Your First Use:

• Use a mild soap to wash the inside with hot water and a soft sponge.

• Dry thoroughly.

To Clean Your Pot:

• After use, simply rinse with hot water and air dry.

• After rinsing, let each piece air-dry separately to prevent rusting. Do not towel dry or scrub the pot. Reassemble the pot only when completely dry.

Use Instructions:

• A natural mineral layer (patina) will gradually develop on the inside of your pot. This is actually beneficial for flavor.

• Avoid contact with salt and oil as these will damage the finish on the outside of the pot.

• Do not use the teapot on stoves or microwaves.

• Do not wash or scrub the outside of the pot.

• Do not allow water or wet leaves to sit in the teapot overnight, as this can cause the onset of rusting.

• Do not soak the pot in water or put in a dishwasher.

• Use bamboo utensils to prevent scratching or damaging of the enamel finish.

• Slight color transference is expected with certain color pots.

Want to try out your own cast iron teapot? Teavana has some of the highest quality and unique designs made in this very Japanese tradition.

Check them out here, and tell us in the comments how you like to relish your tea!

Original article and pictures take www.eupterrafoundation.com site