December 30, 2023
How to use a kyusu teapot?
As an experienced operator of an English-language e-commerce website specializing in tea, tea ware, and tea culture, I'm often asked about the proper use of various teamaking tools. One such tool that frequently puzzles tea enthusiasts is the kyusu teapot. Originating in Japan, the kyusu is a beautiful and functional teapot, typically made of ceramic or cast iron, that is specifically designed for brewing green tea. Here, I'll guide you through the steps of using a kyusu teapot to ensure you can fully enjoy the delicious nuances of your favorite green tea.
1. **Preparation**: Begin by warming up your kyusu. Pour hot water into the pot and swirl it around to heat the walls. Discard the water. This step is crucial as it prevents the steeping temperature from dropping too quickly, which can affect the tea's flavor.
2. **Measuring the Tea**: Use approximately 2 grams of green tea per 100 milliliters of water. Gently place the leaves into the warmed kyusu.
3. **Water Temperature**: For most green teas, the ideal steeping temperature is between 160°F to 175°F (70°C to 80°C). Boiling water can scorch the leaves, resulting in a bitter taste. Let the boiling water sit for a minute or so before pouring it over the tea.
4. **Steeping**: Slowly pour the hot water over the leaves, ensuring they are all wetted. Cover the kyusu with its lid and allow the tea to steep for about 1 to 3 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
5. **Pouring**: When the tea is ready, hold the kyusu firmly with one hand on the handle and the other supporting the base. Tilt the pot slightly and pour in a circular motion to evenly distribute the tea into each cup.
6. **Appreciation**: Observe the color and aroma of the tea before taking a sip. Appreciate the subtle flavors and textures that emerge as you drink.
7. **Re-steeping**: Many green teas can be resteeped multiple times, each time revealing new layers of flavor. Simply add more hot water to the kyusu and steep for slightly longer durations.
8. **Cleaning and Care**: After use, rinse the kyusu thoroughly with hot water to remove any residue. Avoid using soap as it can affect the flavor of future brews. Allow the teapot to air dry completely before storing.
Using a kyusu teapot is not just a functional process; it's an exercise in appreciation and mindfulness. Take your time, enjoy the ritual, and savor every sip of your deliciously brewed green tea.
1. **Preparation**: Begin by warming up your kyusu. Pour hot water into the pot and swirl it around to heat the walls. Discard the water. This step is crucial as it prevents the steeping temperature from dropping too quickly, which can affect the tea's flavor.
2. **Measuring the Tea**: Use approximately 2 grams of green tea per 100 milliliters of water. Gently place the leaves into the warmed kyusu.
3. **Water Temperature**: For most green teas, the ideal steeping temperature is between 160°F to 175°F (70°C to 80°C). Boiling water can scorch the leaves, resulting in a bitter taste. Let the boiling water sit for a minute or so before pouring it over the tea.
4. **Steeping**: Slowly pour the hot water over the leaves, ensuring they are all wetted. Cover the kyusu with its lid and allow the tea to steep for about 1 to 3 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
5. **Pouring**: When the tea is ready, hold the kyusu firmly with one hand on the handle and the other supporting the base. Tilt the pot slightly and pour in a circular motion to evenly distribute the tea into each cup.
6. **Appreciation**: Observe the color and aroma of the tea before taking a sip. Appreciate the subtle flavors and textures that emerge as you drink.
7. **Re-steeping**: Many green teas can be resteeped multiple times, each time revealing new layers of flavor. Simply add more hot water to the kyusu and steep for slightly longer durations.
8. **Cleaning and Care**: After use, rinse the kyusu thoroughly with hot water to remove any residue. Avoid using soap as it can affect the flavor of future brews. Allow the teapot to air dry completely before storing.
Using a kyusu teapot is not just a functional process; it's an exercise in appreciation and mindfulness. Take your time, enjoy the ritual, and savor every sip of your deliciously brewed green tea.