If you’ve recently acquired a new cast iron tea kettle (tetsugama), a simple preparation process will ensure it is ready for safe and long-lasting use.
Why Preparation Is Needed
During production, a protective mold-release coating is applied to the surface of the kettle so it can be removed cleanly from its casting mold. Because of this, the kettle should not be used immediately for tea.
Before its first use, the coating needs to be gently removed through a few rounds of boiling water.
How to Prepare Your Kettle
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Fill the kettle with water.
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Bring the water to a boil.
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Discard the water.
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Repeat this process two to three times.
Once any initial odor has disappeared, your kettle is ready to be used as usual.
Important: Avoid Direct Flame at First
For the first two or three boilings, do not use direct flame.
Instead, use an electric burner or induction (IH) stove.
Applying direct flame during the initial preparation may increase the risk of damaging the iron surface.
After this initial conditioning process, the kettle may be used in the traditional manner appropriate for your tea practice.