Oigen cast iron (history, how to use, care for your cast-iron)

Are you looking for Japanese cast iron? Then you’re likely to come across two different companies Iwachu and Oigen. Both companies make traditional teapots, kettles, and cookware. In this article, you can learn about Oigen cast iron, history, products, and how to use and care for their teapot and kettles.

Table of contents

• Foundry information
• History of Oigen
• How is Oigen cast iron made?
• Oigen cast-iron products
• Use and care tips for your teapot, kettle, and cookware
• Final thoughts

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Information on the Oigen Foundry

Origins	Oigen makes their cast iron products in the Prefecture of Iwate. Only cast-iron produced in this area can be called Nambu Tekki.
Founded	The company was initially named Oikawa Genjura Foundry. And established in 1852. The foundry is owned by the Oikawa family that also runs the Oitomi (external link) foundry nearby.
Cast-iron foundry and factory shop	Horinouchi-45 Mizusawa-Ku Hadacho, Oshu, Iwate 023-0132 Japan Google maps
Type of casting	Both sand casting and clay molding are used.
Iron source	Oigen make their products from iron ore sourced from Australia and is processed in Japan to met Japanese standards. They also recycle products that do not pass their quality control.
Distribution	Oigen cast iron is available worldwide. The company partners with retailers of all sizes, from boutique shops to big online stores including Amazon. There is also a factory shop if you’re in the area. One thing I liked when I visited the shop was the showcase of traditional Tetsubins from local artisans.
Interior finishing	Oigen Casting Works has three types of finishes which one is right for you? 1. uncoated interior (you’ll find uncoated interiors in Tetsubins). Great if you want to increase your daily iron intake. 2. enameled (used in teapots) Easy to clean and nonporous. 3. Oiled (used for cookware and some kettles) Hard polymerized oil separates food and liquids from coming into contact with iron.
Exterior finishing	Your Oigen cast iron will have one of two exterior  finishes: 1. Urushi (or Japanese lacquer gives a traditional look to Japanese teapots and kettles). 2. Oiled (method for seasoning cast iron cookware).
Products	Oigen has a wide product range that includes teapots, kettles, trivets, Dutch Ovens, grills, wind chimes, and even protective skillet handle covers.

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History and background

Do you want a cast iron teapot or kettle in made Japan? Then it’s hard to look past Oitomi, Iwachu, and Oigen. All three companies make very good cast-iron hollowware that will last for decades with proper use.

Oigen is a large-scale cast-iron manufacturer in Japan and has been in operation since 1852. And they are located in the heart of Mizusawa, Oshu, a town in the Iwate Prefecture. This area is famous for the manufacture of Nambu Tekki (southern cast iron). You can learn more about the history of Nambu/Nanbu Tekki by clicking the link.

Like many Japanese foundries, Oigen made traditional tetsubin kettles using clay molds. But with technological advancements, they now make most of their products using green sand casting. Although they still traditionally make many tetsubin kettles by highly trained craftsmen.

Oigen has a full line of products, such as Dutch ovens, grills, trivets, skillets, and sukiyaki bowls.

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How is Oigen cast iron made?

I was lucky to look around the foundry to learn how the family-run business manufacturer their cast iron. My guide was Yutaro Ose, who kindly answered my questions and allowed me to take a few photos. Here’s what I learned.

Oigen is one of the larger companies that makes Nanbu Tekki. However, I was surprised by the scale of the foundry.

In every process, there are multiple checks to ensure quality. I expected the traditional method of clay molding to be very hands-on. But I didn’t expect to see the number of people needed to make sand molded cast-iron. The attention to detail is impressive.

How is your Oigen sand molded cast iron made?

Making sand molds	First, sand is mixed with water to create the desired moisture content. Although there is a machine readout, experts can tell when the molding sand is ready by touch. The amount of water needed changes daily, depending on humidity.
Making ironware	Before iron is poured into the prepared molds. The molten iron is checked to see if it has reached the desired temperature.
Quality control	When the ironware is cool enough, the sand molds are removed. And the sand remaining on the surface of the ironware is removed and checked for imperfections.
Rust prevention	Oigen ensures your teapot or kettle is rust-resistant by heating the ironware to extreme temperatures in a kiln. This provides an oxidized layer to the surface of the ironware. This layer is less likely to rust.
Enameling, lacquering, and oiling.	The most popular method for lining cast iron teapots is enameling. Enamel is nonporous and easy to clean. However, cookware and some teapots and kettles are seasoned with polymerized oil. Lacquering is the most popular method for protecting the exterior surface of cast iron teapot and kettles. And it gives a very pleasing shiny appearance. However, seasoning is the method used on the exterior of the company’s cookware range. And the matte black finish is also popular on kettles and teapots.

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Oigen Cast Iron Products

If you want to see what products Oigen has available on Amazon (affiliated link). You also visit their product page here (non-affiliated link). However, I don’t think they directly sell internationally.

Palma teapot

This Nanbu iron kettle was designed by Jasper Morrison, who is a renowned English designer. The design for this particular teapot has both style and practicality in mind.

The lid has a simple yet stylish knob. It’s a modern take on the traditional Japanese teapot. However, the Palmer teapot is not cheap and is out of my price bracket. But its design is beautiful, and owners can proudly display this kettle when not in use. It would look terrific in both modern and traditional kitchens. It’s available on Amazon if you want to check it out (affiliate link).

 Oigen Maromi Arare kettle

This is a classic teapot we all know and love. With a pebbly finish on the outside, it’s a real cutie. Yes, it’s available on Amazon through this link (affiliate link). It holds about a quart of water and has a good star rating.

This teapot has a thin of layer polymerized seasoning to prevent rust. Because of the coating, it may be lightly cleaned. Although I recommend not cleaning it like a regular kettle to add a calcified protective layer.

Blue egg-shaped teapot 

Colored teapots are very popular in Japan. In my workplace, many of my Japanese co-workers have colorful small teapots. I’m told they are very Kawaii (cute). This particular teapot is perfect for Sencha tea leaves and features a wide infuser, so it’s easy to clean. Here’s the link to Amazon (affiliate link). I guarantee this teapot will make you smile.

Sukiyaki Pan

A cast-iron pot is a perfect vessel to cook your traditional Japanese dishes. It has deep sides similar to what you would find on a brasier. But a Sukiyaki pan is seasoned like your cast iron skillets. Like other cast-iron cookware, this pan evenly distributes heat once heated. The Japanese like to use this type of pot in the cooler months. And is the go-to pan for the traditional dish of Sukiyaki. Here’s the link to Amazon (affiliate link) if you want to start cooking your own Japanese dishes. This pot is suitable for both standard and IH stovetops.  

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Oigen Cast Iron Use & Care 

Wondering how to use and care for your cast iron kettles, teapots, and kitchenware? Here are some tips. 

Cast Iron Kettles (Tetsubins)

These kettles are made for boiling water for tea and should be used as such. Before using your tetsubin for the first time, remove the lid. Fill the kettle with water and boil the water for approximately eight minutes. Then, discard the water. 

Care Tips 

To care for your tetsubin, follow these tips: 

After use	After using your kettle, discard the remaining water and thoroughly dry both the inside and outside. Turn it upside down and allow it to dry with the lid off.
White spots	You’ll notice some white spots on the inside of the kettle with use. This is mineral buildup, and it is normal. Just keep using your kettle as usual.
Prevent rust	Never let water sit inside the kettle after use. This will cause it to develop rust.
Storage	Store your kettle in a dry area. Displaying your kettle is a great idea because it will have a lot of air circulation.

Cast Iron Teapots 

A cast iron teapot is made to steep tea. It is not to be used for boiling water. Before using your teapot for the first time, remove the tea strainer. Fill the inside with water and gently wash it out with a soft sponge. Dump the water. You are now ready to use your Oigen teapot. Simply follow instructions for brewing your favorite tea. Remember teapots are to be used for brewing tea only. You must boil water in a separate kettle. 

Care Tips 

Here are some tips to help you care for your Oigen teapot. 

• After use, gently wash the inside of the teapot and the tea strainer with a sponge.
• Don’t use detergents, scrubbers, or harsh chemicals to clean your teapot. It could damage the lining. 
• Gently dry the teapot with a soft cloth after every use. Turn it upside down and store in a cool, dry place.

After use	Gently wash the inside of your teapot with a soft sponge if your teapot is enameled.
Washing tips	Don’t use detergents, scrubbers, or harsh chemicals to clean your teapot. It could damage the lining.
Storing	Gently dry the teapot with a soft cloth after every use. Turn it upside down and store it in a cool, dry place.

Oigen Kitchenware care

Wash	Before using cast iron for the first time, simply wash the iron out with water.
Preheat your cookware	To avoiding warping your cast-iron cookware, preheat your pan on low to medium heat.
Fry vegetables peelings to season your pans	When using your cast-iron pans for the first time, fry some vegetable peelings (throw them out after). This will remove any factory oils and will season your pan.

Like with Oigen’s famous teapots, never use harsh detergents or scrubbers on cast iron pans. Also, make sure you completely dry your pan after every single use to prevent rust from forming.

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Final thoughts

Oigen cast iron has thrived throughout the years despite wars, earthquakes, and other setbacks. The company flourishes thanks to the dedication and work ethic of the many local craftsmen who make Oigen’s quality ironware. Oigen products are great for any kitchenware collection.