Bulbul Tea Maker: Modern Italian Design for Loose Leaf Tea
By ALESSI UK: Italian Design Home Accessories, Kitchenware & Gifts | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Product Reviews
Discover how to brew loose leaf tea with the Alessi Bulbul, a modern Italian tea maker that combines playful design with practical functionality.
Quick Answer
The Alessi Bulbul is a modern Italian tea maker designed for loose leaf tea, offering a playful yet functional brewing experience. Follow our step-by-step guide to brew a perfect cup every time.
Why the Bulbul Stands Out
The Bulbul tea maker, designed by Achille Castiglioni, draws inspiration from a curling stone, giving it a rounded, smooth shape that invites you to slide it across your kitchen surface. This design not only adds a touch of Italian playfulness to your countertop but also makes handling the kettle intuitive and comfortable.
Its induction-ready construction means you can heat water directly on an induction hob, streamlining your tea-making process. The kettle's unique form also makes it easy to pour, reducing spills and drips.
Considerations Before You Brew
While the Bulbul is a versatile tea maker, it's essential to note that it is primarily designed for loose leaf tea, not tea bags. The wide opening allows for easy filling and cleaning, but you'll need a separate infuser or strainer if you prefer bagged tea.
Additionally, because the Bulbul is made of stainless steel, it retains heat well, but the handle may become hot during boiling. Always use a pot holder or mitt when handling it after heating.
How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea with the Bulbul
- Heat Fresh Water: Fill the Bulbul with fresh, cold water and place it on your induction hob. Heat until the water reaches the desired temperature for your tea type (e.g., 175°F for green tea, 200°F for black tea). Avoid boiling water for delicate teas; use a thermometer if needed.
- Add Loose Leaf Tea: Once the water is heated, remove the Bulbul from the hob and add your loose leaf tea directly into the water. Use about one teaspoon of tea per cup, adjusting to taste. Don't overfill; leave room for the tea to expand.
- Steep to Perfection: Let the tea steep for the recommended time (e.g., 2-3 minutes for green tea, 3-5 minutes for black tea). The Bulbul's wide opening allows you to see the color and strength of the brew. Set a timer to avoid over-steeping, which can make the tea bitter.
- Strain and Serve: Pour the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into your cup to catch the leaves. The Bulbul's spout is designed for a clean pour, minimizing drips. If you prefer a stronger brew, add a little more tea rather than steeping longer.
- Clean and Maintain: After use, rinse the Bulbul with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive scrubbers to keep the stainless steel finish pristine. Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots or mineral buildup.
Product Facts
- Bulbul: The Bulbul is an induction hob kettle shaped like a curling stone, designed by Achille Castiglioni. Its unique shape and induction compatibility make it a practical and stylish choice for modern kitchens, allowing direct heating on induction stovetops.
Bulbul
