Cast Iron Teapots

A recent post on LiveJournal's TeaFreaks community reminded me that while I have espoused the virtues of the cast iron teapot, I have not provided any information on its care, especially for those who have not used cast iron before.

Cast iron is usually seasoned, meaing coated with oil or grease and then baked, but this is not necessary for a teapot, because this process is to keep food from sticking. However, cast iron should not be washed with soap. In a society of antibacterial soaps and all sorts of kitchen disinfectants, this may seem unsanitary. If the teapot is washed immediately, this is not an issue. Simply rinse it out with hot water, and leave it open side up to dry. This way, all the water will evaporate so that the iron will not rust. Leave the lid off for drying as well.

Because you will not be using soap, I recommend not putting milk or sugar directly in the pot. If you do add to your tea, do it for each cup. Clean the pot shortly after use, and you will have no problems!

While we're at it, a short reminder on storing your tea: Keep it in an airtight, lightight container in a cool place. (Not cold, don't refrigerate or freeze it!). Stored this way, tea will stay fresh one to two years.

Comments

[Frances]

Hi,
I met you this afternoon with your sister at The Secret Garden tearoom. I hope you got to see the little tea house out back. Its in an enchanting location. I just wish the ladies would wear skirts or dresses and not jeans when serving. The room is so elegant. Great blog. Keep it up! Safe travels.

[Stephanie Wolfe]

Hi Frances,
It was very nice to meet you! I hope you don't mind, I'm actually going to write a blog entry about the Irish tradition, I think it's so lovely!

Unfortunately I didn't get to see the back, I wish I had. I agree with you though, such a place needs a little more than jeans.

Good luck with the shower!