Tea has been enjoyed for centuries for its medicinal qualities, and has brought
many a friend together for an afternoon cup. Tea kettles have evolved into a mainstay
on many kitchen stoves and countertops. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur, a collector
of novelty tea kettles, or simply want an efficient means of boiling water, there
are a variety of tea kettles to choose from. The following will guide you in making
an educated choice.
A Bit About Tea
Dating back to 1000BC, there are several theories on how tea was discovered. Generally,
it’s thought to have been discovered in China where it was used for its healing
properties. Tea slowly made its way into Europe in the 1500s and then to Britain
in the 1600s. Tea comes from the tea bush (Camellia sinensis). The four teas you
hear of most often are black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea. The way
the tea leaf is processed gives each tea its unique color and flavor. Many enjoy
a cup of herbal tea, which is tea that has been combined with a fruit or herb. Tea
is brewed by steeping the leaves in hot water. This is where the tea kettle comes
into play.
Tea Kettles
The tea kettle’s purpose is simple: to boil water. As tea has evolved, so have tea
kettles—today, there are two main categories: electric and stovetop. Within each
category there are different types of tea kettles with numerous features. Read more
to learn about the pros and cons of each and what features might be important to
you when purchasing.
Electric
Electric Tea Kettles
Dating back to the late 1800’s, electric tea kettles are primarily manufactured
from a type of metal such as steel or aluminum. Heat-resistant plastics may also
be used. Steel results in a higher-quality kettle, while aluminum is less durable.
Electric tea kettles are more efficient than stovetop kettles in that they boil
water at a quicker rate. However, they do take up counter space that traditional
stovetop kettles do not.
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Cordless Electric Tea Kettles
The cordless electric tea kettle has a base that houses the electrical connection
for heating the kettle. Some have detachable bases that allow conversion to stovetop
use. They have wide, no-spill spouts and are easy to clean, just like the non-cordless.
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Stovetop
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel tea kettles are the most hard-wearing. They are a popular choice
because of their beauty and their functionality. For those concerned with the quality
of the tea served, the stainless steel will not tarnish the taste of the water.
Due to the thickness of the steel, stainless steel tea kettles tend to boil water
at a slower rate than most. So if efficiency is important, copper or an electric
kettle might be a better choice for you.
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Copper
Some might choose a copper tea kettle for its look of Old World charm, but it’s
also an energy efficient choice. Copper should not be set over high-heat; since
only medium heat is used, it saves energy. And the copper conducts heat quickly,
which saves preparation time.
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Cast Iron
Cast Iron is heavy and thick and one of the most durable choices. Until it has been
used several times there can be a risk of rust. After several uses, the kettle will
develop a layer of mineral deposits that will prevent it from rusting. To help prevent
rust, the cast iron should be dried immediately after use. If rust is found, a solution
of baking soda, lemon, and boiling water can remove the rust.
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Enamel
Enamel tea kettles are a popular choice because of the large variety of colors offered.
The enamel may be a coat over cast iron, so like cast iron, the water should be
removed after it is heated to keep the kettle dry and prevent rust. The enamel can
also chip, so handle gently when around other hard objects.
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Novelty
If form is more important to you than function, novelty tea kettles can be a great
choice. They may not be as practical as some, but they can add the perfect touch
of whimsy to your kitchen – whether it’s a cat, a cow or apple, you are sure to find
a good conversation piece for family and friends.
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Features to Consider
If you have a budget and features in mind before you purchase, the process of selection
will be much easier. In regard to budget, there are several price ranges for tea
kettles and a summary of what can be found in each range is listed below. Some of
the most important features to consider are size, heat efficiency, whistle, design,
and maintenance.
Size
Most tea kettles range from about 1.8 to 2.5 quarts. 1.8 might be a bit small for
a large family, but is perfect for a smaller household and is a good choice if maintaining
maximum stovetop space is important. If you entertain often, you might want to consider
a large electric kettle that can serve several and easily be stored on the counter
or tucked away in a cupboard.
Heat Efficiency
The enjoyment of the tea can actually be affected by the temperature of the water.
For example, a black tea should be steeped at the boiling point, while a more delicate
tea, like green tea, should have the water added at a lower temperature. The water
to tea ratio is also key--some electric tea kettles come with a water gauge so you
can be precise in your measurements.
Whistle/No Whistle
The whistle is designed to let you know when the water has reached the right temperature
for steeping the tea. Some might find it a convenience, others might find the high
pitched sound annoying. However, today you can find whistles that sound like a harmonica
or even a favorite song. If the whistle is important, but you don’t want the high-pitched
sound, look around for one with a more modern, soothing pitch.
Design
Just like the interior of your home; you can find traditional and modern tea kettles.
From stainless steel to burnt orange enamel to a kettle in the shape of a cow, you
can find a tea kettle that will add the right touch to your counter or stovetop.
A heat-resistant handle and no-spill spout are important stovetop design features
to look for. Electric tea kettle design features include water gauges and automatic
shut-off systems.
Maintenance
If the thought of taking the time to delicately clean your tea kettle makes you
feel frantic, you want to gear towards easy maintenance--electric tea kettles are
generally easy to clean as well as enamel coated and stainless steel kettles, while
copper and cast iron require a bit more attention. Having a spout cleaning
brush on hand will help make the job easier.
Price Ranges
You can find economy and efficiency in the $0 - $25 price range. No extras here,
but you can find whistles. Like the attractive porcelain enamel-on-steel finish
Copco Prescott Tea Kettle for $19.00 that does have a whistling spout. Or perhaps you
want to add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen—a novelty tea kettle is a great way
to do this. Check out the
Cow Kettle by Kamenstein for $19.99.
In the $25 - $50 price range you have more choices with both stovetop and electric.
Kitchen Aid has a line of stovetop 2 qt. porcelain tea kettles that have a quick
and even heating base, ergonomically designed handles that stay cool in a wide range
of colors including apple and tangerine for as low as $29.99.
The $50 - $100 price range provides great quality and even more features. For example,
the same Kitchen Aid 2 qt. porcelain tea kettles have an abrasion resistant, non-scratch
interior offered at $81.99. Or Cuisinart’s cordless electric kettle that automatically
turns itself off—a perfect choice for busy families.
In the $100 - $250 price range, you’re going to find high-quality, elegant, and
one-of-a-kind tea kettles. Mauviel offers a handsome
Copper Tea Kettle for
a little over $150. Or go cordless with the
Electric Tea Kettle by DeLonghi that
offers the following: detachable base, water filter, concealed heating element,
water level indicator, cord rewind, and a rubberized lid.
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