How to use and maintain a cast iron teapot?

How to maintain your cast iron teapot?

Are you dreaming of buying a new cast iron teapot and want to take care of it? Here are some tips for keeping your cast iron teapot looking as good as new!

1- The advantages of using a cast iron teapot.

Cast iron teapots, like glass and porcelain teapots, are considered "memory-free" teapots because once cleaned, they do not retain the flavor of the tea. Conversely, earthenware teapots are called "memory-free" teapots because they absorb the tea's aromas. These teapots are therefore reserved for preparing a single type of tea.

Let's highlight the many advantages of using a cast iron teapot:

• Dark or very colorful, they become an undeniable decorative accessory !

• The variety of sizes offered by specialist shops is appreciated by tea lovers: from 30cl to more than a litre, they are perfectly suited to your daily use.
• Cast iron is a very solid material , with our usage instructions, you can keep your teapot for life!
• Cast iron retains heat longer and diffuses it gently and evenly, allowing you to enjoy several cups of piping hot tea.

For some, however, they have some drawbacks:

• Cast iron is a heavier material than glass or porcelain.
• Improper use may cause some parts of the teapot to rust.

2- Prepare your teapot before first use.

You've just bought your teapot and you can't wait to use it... Take care to clean it!

• Clean the teapot with boiling water, pouring hot water several times.
• Prepare a cup of tea in your teapot once or twice, but do not consume it until your first actual use.

If you are not using it immediately, dry it properly.

• Dry the inside and outside of the unit, as well as its cover and filter, using a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not close the teapot with its lid immediately. Store the teapot open in a dry place.

3- Do not confuse cast iron kettle and teapot.

Cast iron kettles

They are made for heating water and are not enameled. They can be in direct contact with a heat source.

Cast iron teapots

They are intended for brewing tea. The interior of the teapots is enameled to prevent rust, maintain a neutral taste, and make cleaning easier. If you heat this teapot directly on the stove, the enamel may chip and crack. Only a tea warmer with a candle can be used to keep tea hot.

4- Things not to do with your cast iron teapot.

• Do not heat the cast iron teapot on an open flame or on a stovetop.
• Do not use detergents to clean the teapot
• Do not put the teapot in the dishwasher
• Do not put the teapot in the microwave
• Do not leave water or tea in the bottom of the teapot after use.

5- Prepare your tea in a cast iron teapot.

Each tea must be brewed at a specific temperature. It is recommended to bring your teapot to "temperature" before preparing the tea. So, pour hot water into the teapot, then discard this water.

1. Measure the quantity of tea adapted to the volume of your teapot and place it in the filter
2. Pour the water at the right temperature (Reminder: on all our tea bags, you will find the preparation instructions)
3. Once the brewing time is complete, remove the filter to stop the infusion. Shake it gently to release the last drops into your teapot, but do not press the leaves! Excess tannins will give your tea a bitter taste.

See our article: how to prepare your tea properly?

6- Clean your cast iron teapot after serving the tea.

1. Clean the inside of your teapot while it is still hot with a soft sponge, rinse it with very hot water
2. Dry it thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth
3. Do not close the teapot with its lid and filter immediately. Store it open in a dry place.

The tannins in tea "cling" to the sides of the teapot; if left undisturbed, they will stick; this is called seasoning the teapot. To prevent them from sticking, rinse and dry your teapot while it is still hot. If the tannins have already set in, clean with lemon juice.

7- Iwachu, a Japanese company famous for its cast iron kettles and teapots.

In the 17th century, ironwork craftsmanship developed in Iwate Prefecture, in northeastern Japan. The Iwachu family business was established in the city of Morioka in 1902. Suekichi Iwashimizu was the founder, and his two sons, Yakichi and Takiji, developed modern factories after World War II. The company then achieved national and international success. Iwachu kettles, teapots, and other kitchen utensils are renowned for their quality craftsmanship. Europeans and Americans are fond of their colorful teapots.

Sources: https://iwachu.co.jp/