A Japanese tetsubin teapot sits on the right side of the image, with intricate patterns etched into its cast iron surface. On the left, a sleek black cup complements the teapot's traditional design.

The Charm of Tetsubin : A Guide to Japanese Teapot and kettle.

December 16, 2023

In Japan, tea is much more than just a beverage - it's a way of life. And the vessel that carries this precious elixir is just as important as the tea itself. Enter the tetsubin, a traditional Japanese teapot made of cast iron that has been cherished by tea lovers for centuries. In this blog article, we'll explore the craftsmanship, charm of tetsubin and offer a guide on how to choose and care for these unique teapots and kettles.

A matte black cast iron teapot with a rounded body and a curved handle, placed on a light grey surface against a textured concrete background.

What is a tetsubin teapot ?

A Tetsubin teapot is a type of traditional Japanese teapot that is made of cast iron. It is primarily used for steeping tea leaves and is known for its durability, heat retention, and ability to enhance the flavor of tea. The name Tetsubin (鉄瓶) literally means iron pot.

The teapot is designed with a top handle for easy holding and pouring, a lid for covering the tea leaves while they steep, and a pouring spout for effortless serving of the tea. The lid and spout are designed to fit tightly to prevent any spilling or dripping of the tea.

The cast iron material of the teapot helps to keep the tea warm for an extended period of time, making it an excellent choice for serving multiple cups of tea.

Tetsubin teapots often feature intricate designs and are considered both functional and decorative pieces. They have been used in Japan for centuries and are still popular today both in Japan and around the world.

How are tetsubin made?

Tetsubin is a traditional Japanese cast iron teapot and also kettle, which is popular for its durability and ability to retain heat. The process of making tetsubin involves several steps.

Firstly, a mold is created by carving the desired shape of the teapot and kettle into a block of compressed sand. This mold is then used to create a wax replica of the teapot and kettle, which is coated in several layers of ceramic material. This ceramic shell is then heated in a kiln to create a hardened mold.

Next, molten iron is poured into the mold and left to cool and solidify. The iron is then removed from the mold and any rough edges are smoothed out using a grinder or file. The teapot or kettle is then polished and coated with a layer of enamel to prevent rusting and improve the taste of the tea.

Finally, the tetsubin is decorated with various patterns or designs, which are either carved into the iron or applied using a special lacquer. The teapot and kettle is then ready to be used and enjoyed for many years to come.

In terms of patterns or designs, there are several types of tetsubin patterns:

One of the most popular patterns is called "arare," which means hailstones. This pattern is created by making small, raised dots all over the surface of the teapot. It creates a beautiful and unique texture that is both visually appealing and functional, as it allows for a better grip on the teapot.

Another popular pattern is "oni-arare," which means demon hailstones. This pattern is similar to arare, but the dots are larger and more irregularly shaped, giving it a more aggressive and fierce appearance.

The third pattern is called "hada," which means skin. This pattern is created by applying a special lacquer to the surface of the teapot, which is then heated to create a unique, textured pattern that resembles the skin of a snake or dragon.

Regardless of the pattern or design, each tetsubin is unique and crafted with care and attention to detail. It is a beautiful and functional piece of art that can be enjoyed for many years.

How to use tetsubin?

To use a tetsubin teapot, follow these steps:

Rinse the teapot: Fill the teapot with hot water and swirl it around to rinse the inside of the teapot. Discard the water.
Add loose tea: Add loose tea leaves to the teapot. The amount of tea will depend on the size of the teapot and your personal preference.
Add water: Pour hot water over the tea leaves until the teapot is about 3/4 full. The water should be heated to the appropriate temperature for the type of tea you are brewing.
Let steep: Allow the tea to steep for the appropriate amount of time. This will also depend on the type of tea you are brewing. Some teas require only a minute or two, while others may need up to 5 minutes.
Pour the tea: Hold onto the handle of the teapot with one hand, and use the other hand to hold onto the lid. Pour the tea into cups using a strainer to catch any loose tea leaves.
Enjoy: Sip and enjoy your freshly brewed tea!

Note: Tetsubin teapots are made of cast iron and can become very hot to the touch. Use caution when handling and pouring the teapot.

How to clean tetsubin?

To clean a tetsubin teapot, follow these steps:

Rinse with hot water: After each use, rinse the teapot with hot water. Do not use soap or detergents, as they can damage the teapot's seasoning.
Scrub gently: If there are any stubborn stains or residue, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the inside of the teapot. Do not use anything abrasive, such as steel wool or a scouring pad, as this can scratch the teapot's surface.
Dry completely: After cleaning, dry the teapot thoroughly with a soft cloth. Do not let it air dry, as this can lead to rusting.
Store properly: To prevent rusting, store the teapot in a dry place with the lid off. Do not stack other items on top of the teapot.
Re-season as needed: Over time, the seasoning on the teapot may wear off. To re-season, simply fill the teapot with water and bring it to a boil. Discard the water and repeat the process until the water runs clear.

Note: Do not place a tetsubin teapot in the dishwasher or use any harsh cleaning chemicals on it. This can damage the teapot's seasoning and cause it to rust.

What is the benefit of cast iron teapot?

A cast iron teapot has several benefits:

Firstly, it has excellent heat retention, which means that it can keep your tea hot for a longer period of time compared to other types of teapots. This is because cast iron has a high thermal mass, which allows it to absorb and distribute heat evenly.

Secondly, cast iron teapots are very durable and can last for many years if taken care of properly. They are also resistant to scratches and dents, which makes them ideal for daily use.

Thirdly, the interior of a cast iron teapot is coated with enamel, which prevents rust and corrosion and makes it easier to clean. The enamel also helps to enhance the flavor of the tea by preventing any metallic tastes from seeping into the tea.

Lastly, cast iron teapots have a unique and traditional design that can add to the aesthetic of your kitchen or dining room. They come in various sizes and shapes and are often adorned with intricate patterns and designs.

Can teapot go on the stove?

If you're using a traditional tetsubin made of pure cast iron, without any enamel or other coatings, you can put that type of pot on the stove.

How to remove rust from tetsubin?

To remove rust from a tetsubin teapot, you can follow these steps:

First, rinse the teapot with warm water to remove any loose rust particles.
Mix a solution of equal parts of warm water and white vinegar in a bowl.
Dip a soft-bristled brush or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the rusted areas of the teapot.
Let the solution sit on the teapot for about 15-20 minutes.
Rinse the teapot with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
If the rust is still present, you can repeat the process or try using a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste and apply it to the rusted areas. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing and drying.
To prevent rust from forming in the future, make sure to dry the teapot completely after each use and store it in a dry place.

It's important to note that while a tetsubin teapot is designed to be durable, it still requires proper care to maintain its quality and prevent rust. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help to prolong the life of your teapot.

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