Kung fu tea enthusiasts carry with them an undeniable elegance. The entire process – from making the tea, pouring, to tasting – seems so fluid, yet genuine. It reminds me of my maiden attempt at using a gaiwan teapot. My imitation of that elegance was more of a slapstick performance, and it became apparent when a seasoned tea drinker mentioned, “Don’t stick your little finger up.” However, what really matters is the technique-the taste and feel of the tea. Gestures are just a personal touch, as long as they don’t offend your guests.
Using the Gaiwan Without a Burn – The 3 Effective Ways
The gaiwan, or gaibei, comes with its challenges, but the reward is a cup of brilliantly brewed tea. Here’s how to ensure you have a burn-free experience:
Mind the Gap: When pouring the tea, ensure there’s a reasonable gap between the bowl and its lid. The size of this gap depends on the tea leaves’ size – not too big, not too small. A larger gap may cause the hot water to gush out and burn you, whereas a smaller gap could block the tea from pouring out. Beginners can start with a small gap and adjust accordingly.
Hold Right to Pour Right: If the gaiwan is too hot, holding it differently might be the solution. Here are three ways:
Way One (My Favorite Way):
Grip the bowl diagonally between your thumb and middle finger.
Use your index finger’s first joint to hold down the lid knob or press down with its tip.
To pour, push your wrist down and tilt the bowl to 90 degrees. Wait till every drop is poured before pulling back to ensure the taste remains consistent.
Way Two:
Hold the bowl similarly, using the thumb and middle finger.
Instead of pressing with the joint, use the index finger to press against the lid knob’ s depression.
Be careful, this method might not work for all lid knobs, especially those with a pronounced depression.
Way Three (Popular Among Men):
Adjust the space between the lid and bowl. Hold the bowl’s edge with both hands’ thumb and forefinger.
Lift the bowl, cover the lid with the right thumb, while the other fingers support its bottom. Like grabbing a hamburger.
It’s worth noting this method suits people with larger palms, as they provide more stability.
Special Tips:
1. Don’t grip the bowl; it gets quite hot after brewing.
2. Pour gently to avoid tea from spilling and burning your hand.
3. To check if all tea has been poured, gently swing the gaiwan teapot. Maintain a straight posture; don’t tilt with the wrist and the bowl. And never expose the bowl’s bottom to guests – it’s deemed rude.
Factors Causing Gaiwan to Heat – Avoid Them
Material: Glass gaiwans heat up quicker than ceramics, making ceramic a safer choice.
Thickness: Contrary to belief, a thin-walled gaiwan heats less than a thicker one because the latter stores more heat.
Rim Length: A narrow extending rim from the bowl’s top is more likely to get hot.
If you are A beginner To Gaiwan and just need to buy a gaiwan, this article is For your reference: Ultimate Guide:How To Choose A Gaiwan For Beginners?
Conclusion
Using a gaiwan is more than just brewing tea; it’s about mastering an art. While it might seem daunting initially, with the right technique and practice, you can sip your kung fu tea elegantly without any burns. Remember, it’s about the experience as much as it is about the tea itself.
FAQ
Q: Is there a universally best way to hold a gaiwan?
A: No, it varies based on hand size, gaiwan design, and personal comfort. It’s best to try different methods and choose the most comfortable one.
Q: Why do some people prefer ceramic gaiwans over glass ones?
A: Apart from traditional preferences, ceramic gaiwans tend to retain heat less than glass ones, reducing the chances of burns.
Q: Can beginners use a gaiwan without burns?
A: Absolutely! By following the tips provided, practicing regularly, and staying mindful of the gaiwan’s temperature, beginners can easily master the art without burns.