Kettle

Kettle, also called teakettle (often written as tea kettle), is a kitchen appliance that has been traditionally employed in boiling water or brewing tea. Traditional kettles are heated by being placed on a turned on stove. However, in the modern times, different types of kettles have flooded the market, which have multiple utilities as well. The electric kettle is the most common modern kettle, which can be heated on its own, as it is fitted with its own electric heating feature.

 

Common Types of Tea Kettles

 

Stovetop kettles

This traditional kettle, which comes in a pitcher-like shape with a metallic body, is engaged in heating water, placed on a hob or stovetop, as the name clearly suggests. These appliances have a spout, a lid and a handle on the top. Some versions of stove-mounted kettles also feature a steam whistle, which acts as an indicator when the water inside it reaches the boiling point.

 

Electric kettles

Generally manufactured in a steel or durable plastic body, with a plastic handle, these kettles are powered by electricity. Some modern versions of this equipment also have the technology of automatic deactivation, which prevents the water to boil away and cause damage to the heating element of the kettle. The electric versions also heat water faster than the conventional tea kettles. The body of these kettles is made of certain materials, which allow heat to conduct more efficiently.

 

The electric tea kettles either have the self-heating unit located at their bottom or in a separate chamber below their water reservoir.  This makes the equipment portable, as well as space saver. There are even more improved types, which have a control panel, which allows the kettle to be turned on or off and also, set multiple settings of temperature. Cordless kettle is an advanced electric model, where the bases can rotate completely, providing a handy access from any direction. Some other advanced models may include features like –

  • Water level indicator
  • Concealed heating unit
  • Cool-touch, which makes it safer for younger children at home

 

Jug Kettle

These are tall kettles with a side handle. These are heavier to lift and carry than the traditional kettles and most of these models have big handles, good to be held with both hands. Jug kettles generally have hinged lids.

 

Filter Kettle

These are tea kettles with water filtration technology, designed to boil and deliver the tap water in it, filtered and purified. Most of these models are electric, portable and often, cordless. However, filter kettle may also refer to a kettle that has in-built coffee or tea filter, although, these are more commonly known as infuser or brewing kettles.

 

Steam Jacketed Kettle

This is similar to a double boiler and is used for cooking food by employing the heat generated by steam. Stock, soup, gravy or sauce, are some foods, which are best cooked in these kettles. These are ideal for braising foods or cooking pasta. These are generally engaged in cooking on an industrial scale, and even in schools and hotels.

 

Soup Kettle

This kettle either resembles a pot or a lidded cauldron with flat bottom. It is used for cooking stews or soups. These are generally made of aluminum.

 

Microwave Kettle

This new age kettle is microwave safe and boils water inside a microwave oven.

 

History of Tea Kettle

Taking wings from the Latin word “Catillus,” which means funnel, deep dish or bowl, the English word “Kettle,” is believed to have been existent since the ancient times. Historians have opined the metal cooking utensil to be, probably, the ancient most of its kind. Archaeological findings have supported the fact, that in the olden times, pressed steel plate and wrought iron were the commonly used metals for making kettles.

 

Cooking Utensils Similar to Tea Kettle

While there are quite a few utensils, which may bear a strong resemblance to teakettles, they may not necessarily be the same or even related. Some such utensils, which are not to be confused with a kettle, are as follows –

 

Cauldron – This is a large sized kettle-like utensil, hung on bail, which is an arc shaped hanger, over open fire.

 

Fish Kettle – This kettle-like utensil is a long and slender cooking vessel with a metallic body and tightly fitting lid, used for cooking whole large fishes, such as salmon.

 

Kettle Grill – This utensil, which seems like a cross between a cauldron and a traditional kettle, bears a dome shaped grill and a round lid.

 

Kettle drum – This is basically a drum, which is shaped in the form of a cauldron.

 

Tea Kettle Buying Tips

 

  1. Determining kettle capacity - It is crucial to determine the capacity of the kettle. While compact kettles, which are easy-to-store and two-cup kettles, are best suited for singles, large kettles that are good to fill big tea pots are ideal for families. Convenience kettles with at least a quart or more capacity are better.

 

  1. Comparing kettle types – The main types of kettles are of two types – electric models and stovetop models. While the former are safer, portable, faster and more convenient to use, the latter is the most basic type and economical. Thus, the buyer should compare before settling for a particular type of a kettle, best suited for his needs.

 

  1. Kettle design and style – While stainless steel electric kettles are heavier, they retain the hotness of the water or brewed beverage for a longer time than the plastic models. Buying models matching and blending well with other kitchen equipments is a good idea. However, bulky models, which are difficult to handle should be avoided. It is also wise to buy an electric kettle with safety feature such as a drip-less spout and an indicator. For stovetop kettles, 18/10 stainless models are thought to be easier to clean and are also, more durable. Glass kettle should be avoided, if buying for regular use, as they are prone to cracking and can be a safety hazard.

 

  1. Extended services – Considering extended services for the electrical kettles is recommended.  While most kettles in the category come with a year’s warranty, it may be a good idea to opt for extended contracts to stay on the safer side and avail of prompt repair services, should the need be, at a much lower fee.

 

Multiple Uses of Teakettles

Other than brewing tea and boiling water, tea kettles can also be doubled-up or alternately  for other tasks such as –

 

  • Small tea kettles can make artistic looking flower pots to support a bouquet of flowers, especially silk flowers, with floral foam support.
     
  • Kettle for tea can also be turned into a potpourri container to adorn as the centerpiece of a kitchen table.
  • The appliance can also be used for flowering small houseplants.

 

Trivia

Some companies have attempted to create a quite tea kettle, which does not make any noise while boiling or brewing. This has been attempted by altering the design of the water reservoir of the kettle or using vibration damping technology.