Kava bowls, also known as tanoas, are essential tools in the traditional preparation and consumption of kava, a plant native to the Pacific Islands.
They can add a touch of ceremony and cultural significance to the kava experience. In this article, we'll explore five of the best kava bowls on the market, covering a range of styles and price points. First, let's take a look at some of the different styles of kava bowls that are available.
What is a Kava Bowl?
Traditional Fijian kava bowls typically have five or six legs and are made from local hardwood tree species like Agathis macrophylla (Fijian Kauri) or Intsia bijuga (Vesi wood).
These bowls may be decorated with shells and natural fiber cord, and older bowls may be made of clay or stone. In contrast, traditional Samoan kava bowls are often more ornately designed, with more than ten legs and intricate carvings that are blackened to stand out.
Round and oval shapes are both common in Samoa.
In addition to traditional kava bowls, there are several modern options on the market. These can be made from various materials, including metal, plastic, copper, clay, and wood. While any bowl will technically work for preparing kava, dedicated kava bowls can add a touch of ritual and aesthetic appeal to the experience.
Now, let's dive into our top picks for the best kava bowls on the market.
Traditional Fijian Kava Bowl
For those seeking an authentic and traditional kava bowl experience, it's hard to go wrong with a Fijian kava bowl. These bowls are typically made of local hardwood species and feature simple yet elegant designs, focusing on natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.
Related Link: How to Make Kava Taste Better
Traditional Samoan Kava Bowl
If you're interested in Samoan culture and want to bring a touch of that tradition to your kava experience, a Samoan kava bowl is a great choice. These bowls are known for their intricate designs and often feature more than ten legs.
Do you have any questions about kava? Let’s get in touch!
Copper Kava Bowl
For a more modern twist on the traditional kava bowl, consider a copper option. Copper is a strong and durable material that adds a touch of sophistication to the kava experience.
Clay Kava Bowl
Clay kava bowls offer a rustic and natural feel, adding a touch of earthiness to the kava experience.
Wooden Kava Bowl
For a classic and timeless look, a wooden kava bowl is a great choice. These bowls can range from simple and rustic to ornately carved and decorative, depending on the style you choose. The Wooden Kava Bowl from Kavafied is a top pick, featuring a simple yet elegant design made from sustainably sourced hardwood. This bowl is handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques and has a natural finish that allows the beauty of the wood to shine through.
In addition to these five options, there are many other kava bowls on the market to choose from. When selecting a kava bowl, consider your style and budget, as well as any cultural or traditional elements that you may want to incorporate into your kava experience. Aside from the bowl itself, there are a few other tools you'll need to properly prepare and consume kava.
These include a kava strainer (usually a nylon or muslin bag) to filter out the fibrous roots of the kava plant, as well as cups (called bilo) to drink the prepared kava from. You may also want to consider a blender or AluBall for mixing the kava, as well as a scale to measure out the correct amount of kava root.
Related Link: How Much Kava to Get Krunk? What About to Chill?
Using Kava Bowls
Whether you choose a traditional wooden bowl from Fiji or Samoa, a modern option like copper or clay, or something in between, there are many great kava bowls on the market to choose from. So, these are the five best kava bowls that are perfect for your kava experience.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional experience or something more contemporary, there’s a kava bowl out there for you. And if you want to try a pre-made kava beverage, be sure to check out our site.
Related Link: How to Make Kava: Preparation Guide
