Introduction

A Kuksa is a traditional wooden cup originating from the Sámi people of Lapland, Finland, handcrafted from birch burl or curly birch. Known for its natural beauty, durability, and cultural significance, the Kuksa has become a cherished item for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone who appreciates a unique, handmade piece. Preparing and caring for a Kuksa properly ensures it will last for generations and enhance your drinking experience.

Inspect Your Kuksa for Authenticity

If you’re unsure about the authenticity of your Kuksa, use your tongue to taste the outside of the cup. A strong salty taste suggests it's genuine.

IMPORTANT: The salty taste can make your coffee or other drink taste strange, to avoid this and to ensure your new Kuksa's durability for the long haul, follow the guide below:

1. Dissolve Excess Salt

• Pour hot coffee into the Kuksa and let it sit for 2 minutes. This helps to dissolve the excess salt that can affect the taste. Do not drink the coffee. Pour it out and allow the Kuksa to dry for a couple of hours to open up the wood pores.

2. Coffee Fat Treatment

• Take a tablespoon of wet, warm coffee grounds (Coffee sludge) and rub them firmly into the interior walls of the Kuksa with your thumb. Continue rubbing until the coffee grounds have dried. The coffee fat will absorb into the wood’s open pores, creating a water-repellent layer that protects the Kuksa from moisture, cracking, and unwanted flavors.
• After this, remove the coffee bean-remains and wipe it down.

3. Ongoing Care and Use

• NEVER wash your Kuksa with soap or detergent. Do not even rinse it with water unless absolutely needed. Simply wipe it clean with a cloth after normal use or rinse with water if you have eaten out of it. If you eat thicker foods like soup from the Kuksa, you may need to scrape it gently with a knife to remove any build-up.

4. Enjoy Your Kuksa!

• Your Kuksa is now ready to use! Enjoy coffee, tea, or any non-acidic beverage, and let it develop its character over time. The more coffee you drink out of it, the better protective film it will get! The Kuksa, when cared for, can be left as a legacy to future generations!

Short Video Tutorial:

By following this traditional Finnish preparation method, your Kuksa will last longer and become a cherished item in your daily life or outdoor adventures.

Alcohol, like Cognac for example, can be enjoyed from your Kuksa, but at decent pace preferably as the alcohol wears down the nice protective film you have created in your Kuksa!