Electric kettles, used primarily for quickly heating water for a nice cup of tea, are not standard in American kitchens, but they are ubiquitous abroad—and we think they’re on to something.
Even if you simply use a kettle for tea, it’s a convenience. Because the heating element directly heats the water (versus a stovetop kettle, where the heating element heats the pot, which then heats the water), it happens fast. About 3 minutes for a full kettle, but far less for individual servings. By time you gather your mug, tea bag, and sweet little treat to enjoy on the side, your water will be ready. And that’s all without taking up precious space on your stovetop.
That may not impress you, seeing as Americans tend to drink less tea than our friends across the pond. But that’s not all a tea kettle is handy for.
Coffee
Whether you are heating water for pour-over coffee systems, a French press, or a quick cup of instant coffee, an electric kettle will get you there in minutes. Many glass varieties have measuring units on the carafe, meaning you can quickly and efficiently boil exactly how much you need on demand. Great for home, perfected for the office around 3pm.
Boil Water Faster
Waiting for a big stockpot of water to boil can take ages, and as we all know, a watched pot never boils. If you fill your pot halfway with water and set it to high, adding boiling water from your kettle every 3 or so minutes, your water will boil in half the time. This will make you happy when you have a hungry crowd waiting for their spaghetti and meatballs!
It’s also handy for small projects on a busy weeknight. If you could boil water for rice faster, wouldn’t you? Pour already boiling water in a shallow pan over vegetables for a quick blanch, over rice noodles in a heat-safe bowl, or to rehydrate dried mushrooms, chiles, or fruit. That time adds up, even if it feels insignificant in the moment.
Clean it Up
We know how to make a mess in the kitchen, but we are even better at cleaning them up. Boiling water is a go-to starting point for deep cleaning sinks, countertops, and appliances (not all, make sure yours is heat-safe)—not to mention its usefulness in other rooms. Pots of boiling water are unwieldy and dangerous, but a kettle’s sturdy handle and tight-fitting lid makes it easy to bring the steam power where you need it.
Kids of All Ages
Your kids might be old enough to boil water safely, but you may be on edge about them using the stove when they’re on their own. Electric kettles typically have auto-off functions and other safety features that make them a safer way for kids, teens, and distracted adults to prepare their own quick-and-easy lunches or snacks, like instant ramen, mac-n-cheese cups, or hot chocolate.
For college students, many dorms allow electric kettles in rooms without kitchen access. Whether it’s for instant oatmeal, a quick lunch between classes, or a steaming hot cup of coffee, a kettle can prove invaluable. They can even use the boiling hot water to sterilize their metal utensils from time to time, make a hot compress, or fill a hot water bottle. Kettles come in a variety of sizes, materials (not all glass!), and price points so finding one to hold up to rough handling and a bit of abuse is easy.
