The topic of how to properly prepare a new purple clay Teapot for use has been discussed extensively. However, many newcomers to the world of purple clay teapots still fall into common traps. Here are some incorrect methods that you should avoid:
Mistake One: Tofu Preparation Method
“Boiling tofu can remove the ‘fiery' quality of a new Purple Clay Teapot, absorb earthy odors and kiln dust, and break down any residual substances in the teapot.”
▲ Preparing a teapot with tofu
Firstly, there is no such thing as a teapot having a ‘fiery' quality. This term is used in traditional Chinese medicine to describe human conditions.
Secondly, the claim about absorbing odors is baseless. If this were true, we would place tofu instead of tea leaves or charcoal sachets in new homes and cars.
Furthermore, after being fired at over 1,000 degrees Celsius, it's unclear what residual substances could be broken down by boiling tofu.
Mistake Two: Sugarcane Preparation Method
“Sugarcane, with its natural sweetness and fragrance, can imbue the teapot with an unprecedented level of nourishment, laying a solid foundation for future brewing.”
▲ Preparing a teapot with sugarcane
The idea behind using sugarcane (or apples) for preparation is likely due to their Sugar content.
This method might make the teapot feel smoother, but the slickness comes from the sugar water, not from normal use. It doesn't produce a patina naturally formed through regular use, and may actually hinder the teapot's development.
Adding sugar directly to the water when boiling without sugarcane or apples is even less advisable.
Mistake Three: Well Water Preparation Method
“If possible, placing a new purple clay teapot in well water can effectively remove its ‘fiery' and dry qualities, allowing the teapot to become fully saturated. This was a common method in the last century.”
▲ Preparing a teapot with well water
We've already addressed the ‘fiery' and dry qualities. If you want to do something similar, putting the teapot in the refrigerator might be more effective.
Moreover, since the teapot will be used daily for tea brewing, the idea of becoming ‘fully saturated' sounds like a joke.
Below is the correct method for preparing a new purple clay teapot:
A brand new purple clay teapot lacks luster and cannot be used immediately for tea brewing. Therefore, before using a purple clay teapot for tea, most people first prepare it, as this makes it easier to develop a patina and removes the earthy smell and kiln dust more thoroughly.
Preparing a teapot is a ritual embraced by lovers of purple clay teapots. It simply means starting to use the teapot, which is just the beginning and need not be overly complicated (Why not use tofu, sugarcane, or boil it in a pot? Read on for the answer). Here is a simple method for preparation:
1. Ziye Shibo teapot ready for preparation
2. Prepare clear water and wash the teapot
3. Rinse the inside with clear water
4. Wipe clean the exterior dust
5. Wake up the teapot by pouring boiling water over it, allowing the teapot's pores to expand due to heat
6. After cleaning, pour out the water
7. Choose Yixing black tea for the preparation. (Follow the one-tea-per-pot rule, choose the type of tea you will brew most often)
