Tea is considered to be one of the healthiest drinks in the world when taken moderately. Some have abandoned their morning coffee for tea, while others take it after their meals. So many different varieties from around the world are available, and it’s always the right time to enjoy a good cup of tea. A teapot is exactly what you need for this.
There are many different models of teapots available out there. And they aren’t only good for tea: you can also make any other kind of infusion with them. We made this article exactly for that purpose: so that you know how to always prepare the best tea. No more heating water in a pot or in the microwave; making tea will become much easier with your very own teapot.
Contents
Key Facts
- Teapots are the best option to make tea and other infusions. While some models can be put directly on the cooker to heat the water up, others are used to infuse tea or simply to serve it.
- Teapots with built-in infusers can keep the drink hot for longer than cups.
- You’ll be able to prepare drinks for several people at a time with one single teapot. These products are safe and will prevent you from getting burned when handling hot water.
The best teapots in the market
Let’s have a look at our top 5 models of teapots chosen from the Australian market. There are many different types of teapot available, and we’ve done our best to offer a varied selection. Pay attention to the information we give you about each option, and you’ll be able to make the right decision to enjoy your favourite drink.
Robyn Lee Jewel Glass Teapot
New South Wales brand Robyn Lee offers this quality, bang-for-your-buck teapot, and there’s no wondering why it has become Amazon’s Choice in the category. Its elegant hand-crafted glass is heat resistant and can handle boiling water, and the special design of the spout includes a spring strainer, stopping any lost drops or spilling.
The teapot offers a capacity of 1.2 litres, which means you can make up to 5 cups at once. Note that this model does not include an infuser, and you can simply place loose leaves or tea bags inside. The advantage of glass teapots is that you can easily see the level of infusion of the water. Past customers simply love it!
Sunbeam London Collection Pot Kettle
American company Sunbeam has over 100 years of experience in making electric home appliances, so you can bet quality won’t be an issue with this kettle. Designed in Great Britain, this model presents an elegant vintage look that will fit right into your home. According to the manufacturer, this kettle allows you to boil up to 6 cups of tea in one go.
Offering 2,400 watts of power, this Sunbeam product includes a fast heating function, extremely handy when you’re on the rush but don’t want to leave without your tea. According to users, the water level is visible. Past buyers are particularly fond of the design of this kettle, while also praising its overall quality. Available in four colours.
Venoly Stainless Steel Teapot
Venoly is a young brand focused on improving our lives through quality and affordable home products. This teapot does just that: its heat-resistant structure is made from durable stainless steel that will last you for years to come.
The removable infuser is also in extra-fine stainless steel, which means rusting won’t ever be a problem with it. This Venoly model is available in two different sizes – 1 litre and 1.5 litre, and is dishwasher safe. Note that this product cannot be used on any kind of stove.
Yosoo Stainless Steel Kettle
This stainless steel kettle presents an intriguing design and great value for your money. With a capacity of 1 litre, it is recommended for pouring over tea but can also be used for coffee. The stainless steel structure is resistant to rust and easy to clean. The angled handle is covered with an insulating material to provide extra safety when serving.
The gooseneck design of the spout makes it easier for you to gauge your pouring, and it also gives an interesting look to the appliance if you plan on having it on display. This kettle can be used on different kinds of stoves: gas, electric or even induction.
Old Dutch International Amai Cast Iron Teapot
Old Dutch was founded in 1950 in New York City, and it has become a popular brand in copperware for your home. Made for brewing and serving tea, its small capacity of 680 millilitres makes it ideal for couples or tighter homes. It is designed in the Testubin style, the most traditional Japanese cast-iron kettles.
Past customers can’t stop talking about the value for money of this product, as Tetsubin tend to be very expensive. This model also includes a stainless steel infuser that is easily removable for cleaning. This type of teapot is particularly good at retaining heat, so you won’t have to heat up the water again!
Shopping Guide: Everything you should know about teapots
You’ll find many different models of teapots on the Australian market. That’s why it is so important that you consider each characteristic to find the one that best suits you. The following sections are designed to help you dig a little deeper into some of those aspects, and you’ll be able to make the best possible decision. Let’s get started!
What teapots are available out there?
- Glass: They can retain heat quite well. This material helps you easily see how the water is being infused.
- Stainless steel: The best thing about this material is that you can put it directly on the stove. It can keep the heat very well, and is designed to avoid spilling while serving.
- Cast iron: These are the traditional Chinese teapots par excellence. The material they are made from are very good at retaining heat. The small holes in the mouthpiece serve as a filter when pouring the drink.
- Porcelain: Porcelain teapots come from China too. They cannot be put on the stove, and you have to directly pour hot water into them. They keep the temperature quite well. Certain models have a built-in filter.
- Clay: This is probably the oldest kind of teapot. Their porous interior absorbs the flavours of the tea, which are then savoured when you prepare any beverage. It tends to be used to make the strongest tea varieties.
- Silver: This is the most common type in Arab countries. Its biggest disadvantage is that its heat-retention capacity is low. Ideal for preparing the most potent tea varieties, it is usually decorated with designs on the metal.
How do teapots work?
On the other hand, teapots with infusers cannot be placed on the stove. The container located inside must be filled with the infusion you want to use. You have to boil the water separately and later add it to the teapot. The advantage of this kind of teapot is that you can leave the tea prepared for a while, as its heat retention capabilities are very good.
What are the advantages of having a teapot?
- Antioxidants. Tea has a large number of antioxidants that help combat the action of free radicals. It helps in delaying the natural process of cellular ageing.
- Vitamins. You may not think so, but tea is an important source of vitamins. As strange as it might sound, this is one more reason why you should make the most of this drink.
- Immune system. Tea has a lot of flavonoids and vitamin H. Both substances stimulate the immune system, strengthening your body’s defences.
- Cardiovascular diseases. Tea helps prevent blood from clotting, which is the cause of many heart conditions. Studies have shown a relationship between tea consumption and lower risks of having this type of disease.
- Weight loss. Tea is great for people on a quest to lose weight. This potent diuretic helps eliminate fluids and toxins, while providing zero calories and having a powerful satiating effect.
- Hydration. Many people face hydration problems because they do not drink enough water, especially during summer. Hot or cold, tea is perfect to face this issue.
How can I make my own tea?
| Phases | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | The leaves are picked |
| 2 | They are left to wither |
| 3 | They are rolled |
| 4 | The leaves are left to oxidate upon air contact |
| 5 | They are dried |
What are the different types of tea?
| Type of tea | Description |
|---|---|
| Green tea | It is obtained after minimum oxidation of the leaves. It provides a large amount of isoflavones and catechins, giving it a high antioxidant value. |
| Oolong tea | Also called blue tea, it is partially fermented. Only whole leaves are used. With a higher content in tannins than green tea, it provides vitamins and minerals and helps the digestion. |
| Pu’er tea | The fermentation process of this variety is almost complete, as it can remain up to 60 days fermenting. Originating in the Chinese city of Pu-er, its red colour is acquired in the barrels in which it is fermented. |
| Black tea | Its fermentation is complete. The leaves are left to dry for about 12 hours, and the oxidation process begins once the leaves come into contact with air. This gives it its colour and its intense flavour. |
| White tea | This specific variety is not very common in the West. It is traditionally made by hand using the plant’s youngest sprouts, giving it a softer taste. Its high content in polyphenols makes it a powerful antioxidant. |
Each of the many varieties available offer a different taste and its very own benefits. Nowadays, a lot people couldn’t go one day without a good cup of tea.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of teapots?
Shopping Criteria
There are certain aspects you need to take into account when buying your teapot. This simply isn’t something that can be left to chance. By analysing what features you want or how often you will use it, you’ll know how to make the best decision. Here are aspects to consider when choosing the model that’s just right for you:
- Capacity
- Functionality
- Quality
- Design
- Maintenance
Capacity
You should always think about the capacity of a teapot. Count how many infusions you want to prepare at once with it: some models will let you make several cups, while individual ones won’t. If you truly love this drink, you’ll be interested in getting both types.
Functionality
The functionality of your teapot is another aspect you really shouldn’t neglect. While some teapots go on the stove and allow you to prepare tea directly inside of them, others will only heat your water. With other models, you may have to boil the water separately and use them only to infuse your tea. You’ll have to opt for the most comfortable option for you.
Don’t forget to think about getting an ergonomic handle: it will be easier and safer to handle your teapot.
The material of the handle should remain cool to hold the teapot. You’ll avoid unwanted accidents that can lead to severe burns. Safety always comes first.
Quality
The material with which the teapot is made will determine its useful life, so this aspect is also key to make the best decision. While glass teapots can only infuse tea, they tend to have a longer life; kettles can sometimes present loss of pressure.
Design
Although design may not always seem like the most important of aspects, you should still take it into account. Some people also see their teapot as decoration. If you plan to have it on display, look for a model that fits well within your home.
Maintenance
Teapot maintenance is important. You’ll need to change parts of certain models frequently due to use. Check if it can be washed in the dishwasher or for any other restrictions in terms of cleaning. You will avoid tons of issues over time if you go for a model that is easily cleaned and maintained.
Summary
You now know how useful teapots are for preparing all kinds of infusions. The type of model you choose will offer different advantages. While some can heat water, others are designed to hold hot water and infuse your tea. Always gauge which model will be most useful to you before making your purchase.
While tea is most used with teapots, these appliances can also make other types of infusions. The different varieties of tea offer an endless number of properties. This is the reason why you can have this drink every day, and many people also love its taste. We hope this article will help your family and yourself make the best cups of tea right from your home.
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(Source of featured image: Fixma: 49987256/ 123rf.com)
