An 800 ml choynak (Uzbek teapot) and 4–6 piyolas of 150 ml each. Sets for 2–4 or 4–6 people are available; ask at the counter. The patterns on the teapot and the bowls match but are not identical.
Crafts
Rishtan tea set
A tea set from Rishtan: a choynak (teapot) and piyolas (tea bowls), hand-painted in cobalt blue. For the Uzbek tea ritual, or as a gift.
The Rishtan tea set is a choynak (an 800 ml Uzbek teapot) and piyolas (150 ml tea bowls), hand-painted with cobalt-blue ishkor glaze, an alkaline glaze made from plant ash. At an Uzbek table, tea is not drunk from big cups: the piyola is filled a little at a time, so the tea can be topped up while hot instead of going cold in a mug.
- Origin
- Uzbekistan (Rishtan, Fergana Valley)
- Category
- Uzbek ceramics and textiles
- Packaging
- 800 ml teapot + 4–6 piyolas, 150 ml each
- Shelf life
- Lasts indefinitely with careful handling
- Certification
- Not applicable (not a food product)
A full set usually has a choynak and 4–6 piyolas; at the counter we keep sets of different sizes, for a family of 2–4 and for a larger group. The pattern on the choynak matches the piyolas without being identical: hand-painting leaves small variations that show these are not mass-produced pieces.
The choynak works best as a brewing pot: the narrow neck holds in the aroma. We do not recommend pouring in boiling water, as the ceramic may crack; the right temperature is 90–95 °C for black tea and 75–80 °C for green.
A tea set is considered a classic Uzbek gift, bought for housewarmings, weddings and milestone birthdays. If you are buying it as a present, we will pack it carefully in foam at the counter; if you are carrying it yourself, a box is best, since ceramics do not take well to knocks and jolts.
FAQ
Rishtan tea set: common questions
We would advise against it, as a sudden change in temperature can crack it. Warm the choynak with warm water first, then brew black tea at 90–95 °C. Green tea should be brewed at 75–80 °C.
By hand, in warm water with a soft sponge; the dishwasher and harsh detergents are not suitable. Leave it to dry on a towel rather than rubbing it with a rough cloth.
Yes, it is a classic Uzbek present for a housewarming, a wedding or a milestone birthday. We will pack it in a foam-lined box at the counter.
For plov or tea
Everything for dinner at one counter
At Arkan Bazar in Riga you can get everything for a meal in one go: rice, spices, dried fruit, flatbread and tea. Planning a family celebration or cooking for a large group? Write to us through the form in advance, and we will have your order ready on time.