Japanese kitchen tools are really something interesting. There are a variety of products and gadgets available in Japan. If you’re someone who is into cooking Japanese food and you want to make your cooking life easier, this guide to 8 Japanese kitchen gadgets is for you. This guide will help you buy the necessary items for your kitchen.
- Tamagoyaki Pan
Tamagoyaki is a delicious Japanese rolled omelette with a slightly sweet flavor and a distinct layered appearance. Tamagoyaki omelette pans are specialized cookware designed specifically for making tamagoyaki. Tamagoyaki pans come in three shapes: square-shaped Kanto style, vertical rectangle-shaped Kansai style, and horizontal rectangle-shaped Nagoya style. The shape of this pan makes it easier to make multi-layered tamagoyaki/omelette. This omelette pan features two heat-conducting layers for balanced heat distribution, making it perfect for cooking delicious and perfectly shaped tamagoyaki. This omelette pan is also incredibly versatile, suitable for use on induction cookers, electric furnaces, and gas stovetops. Just remember to use gentle utensils and a few drops of oil or butter for optimal cooking results. By using this pan, you can make your own anime-like omelette.
- Fine Mesh Skimmer
Japanese people use it to skim off the scum and fat on the surface of dashi broth, soups, and stews. It helps to yield a clean look and refined taste for your dish. It’s also great for picking up fried bits of panko breadcrumbs when deep frying. It is used in pork and vegetable miso soup, Japanese curry, and cream stew.
- Egg Cutter
If you cook ramen, it’s mandatory to decorate some egg slices on top of the ramen. Slice boiled eggs perfectly with this cool egg cutter. It features string-like cutting sections to make thin slices for ramen as well as for salads or snacks. Simply place the egg and press.
- Suribachi and Surikogi
Suribachi and surikogi are Japanese-style mortar and pestle. Japanese people use them to grind sesame seeds and to mix and mash ingredients. The inside of the ceramic bowl has spirals of fine, jagged grooves that facilitate grinding. You can determine how fine you want your sesame seeds to be.
- Onigiri Mold
Crafting those iconic triangular rice balls, onigiri, has never been easier! Onigiri molds offer a convenient and mess-free way to create perfectly shaped onigiri at home, ideal for packing in bento boxes or enjoying as a delicious snack. While the mold ensures uniform and visually appealing onigiri, its benefits extend beyond aesthetics. The pressing action helps to pack the rice tightly, preventing it from falling apart when you take a bite. This is especially helpful for beginners who might struggle with the traditional hand-shaping method.
Onigiri molds don’t limit your fillings! Get creative and experiment with various combinations like pickled plums (umeboshi), savory miso paste, or even a vegetarian twist with chopped vegetables and tofu.
- Bamboo Steamer
Dumplings are a significant part of Japanese cuisine. Make delicious dumplings with this bamboo steamer. Unlike metal steamers, bamboo boasts a porous nature that allows for even steam circulation. This prevents condensation from dripping back onto your dumplings, ensuring they cook evenly and retain their delicate texture. No more soggy bottoms or tough exteriors!
The versatility of a bamboo steamer extends far beyond dumplings. Use it to steam an array of Asian favorites like fluffy bao buns, dim sum treats, and perfectly tender vegetables. Plus, its stackable design allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.
- Ceramic Grater
The ceramic grater is ideal for grating ginger, daikon, and onion. Unlike traditional graters, this innovative tool features a built-in ring that captures the precious juices released during grating. These flavorful liquids can then be incorporated back into your recipe, intensifying the taste experience.
But the benefits go beyond convenience. Ceramic graters boast incredibly sharp teeth that stay that way for a long time, eliminating the need for constant sharpening. This translates to effortless grating and less time spent on prep work.
- Bamboo Sushi Mat
For achieving those perfectly formed sushi rolls and delightful tamagoyaki (rolled omelets), a bamboo sushi mat is an indispensable item in any sushi-making enthusiast’s kitchen. Unlike other methods, the mat provides a stable, non-stick surface that allows you to gently roll and shape your sushi creations with ease.
While the sushi mat excels at crafting beautiful sushi rolls, its uses extend beyond Japanese cuisine. You can also use it to shape delicate rolled appetizers, veggie spring rolls, or even evenly flatten dough for pastries.
Equipping your kitchen with these 8 essential Japanese tools can greatly enhance your experience and efficiency in preparing authentic Japanese dishes. From the specialized tamagoyaki pan and onigiri mold to the versatile ceramic grater and bamboo sushi mat, each tool is designed to make specific tasks easier and more enjoyable. By investing in these must-have gadgets, you can bring a touch of Japanese tradition into your kitchen, ensuring that your culinary creations are both delicious and beautifully presented. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook passionate about Japanese cuisine, these tools are invaluable additions to your kitchen arsenal.
