Tea Cake Jars: Objects That Preserve the Fragrance of Time
In the world of tea, preservation is a science. Whether it's a cake of Pu'er, black tea, or compressed white or green tea, if you want the tea's aroma to last forever, you can't do without a fully functional tea cake jar :
1. What is a tea cake jar?
As the name suggests, a tea cake jar is a container designed specifically for storing tea cakes. Unlike ordinary tea jars, tea cake jars have a wider mouth and larger capacity. The interior space is suitable for storing whole cakes of tea, eliminating the need to unpack them and making them easier to sort and store.
2. The main function of the tea cake jar
1. Moisture-proof and moisture-proof
Tea is most vulnerable to moisture. Moisture-damaged tea cakes not only lose their fragrance but can also cause mold and mildew. Tea cake jars made of a well-sealed structure and material, such as ceramic, purple clay, or tin, effectively isolate moisture from the air and keep the tea cakes dry.
2. Anti-odor absorption
Tea leaves have a strong absorbency, trapping any odor. High-quality tea tins are odor-free and chemical-free, effectively isolating any odors from the kitchen, furniture, or air, ensuring the tea's aroma remains pure.
3. Protect from light and prevent oxidation
Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can accelerate the aging of tea leaves and dissipate their aroma. Most tea tins are light-proof or have thick walls, which effectively prevent direct sunlight, slowing the oxidation of tea leaves and making the tea aroma last longer.
4. Regulating the microenvironment
Some materials (such as purple clay or pottery) have good "breathing properties" and can balance the humidity and temperature in the jar to a certain extent, helping Pu'er, black tea and other post-fermented teas to age naturally in a stable environment, and become more fragrant as they are stored.
5. Collection and beauty
Beyond their practical value, tea cake jars also possess a rich cultural appeal. Whether crafted from elegant white porcelain or mellow purple clay, they create a tranquil scene at the tea table. Many tea lovers also collect and display tea cake jars, embodying both practicality and artistic beauty.
3. Common materials and characteristics
| Material | Features | Applicable tea |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic jar | Good sealing, strong moisture-proof and light-proof | Suitable for all types of tea |
| purple clay pot | Good air permeability, suitable for aging | Pu'er, dark tea |
| tin can | Excellent sealing, light-proof and anti-oxidation | Green tea, oolong tea |
| glass jar | Strong visibility, beautiful appearance | Temporary storage and viewing purposes |
4. Usage and maintenance recommendations
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Wipe it clean with a clean cloth before use to keep the interior odor-free.
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The storage environment should avoid direct sunlight, away from oil smoke and moisture.
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Check the seal regularly to ensure the jar opening is dry and tight.
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If it is not used for a long time, you can take out the tea cake, dry the jar and then seal it.
Conclusion
A good tea cake jar not only preserves the aroma of tea but also adds warmth to the tea's life. Under its protection, every wisp of the tea cake's aged fragrance is a gift from time.
- Brewin Teaware
