We'll introduce you to recipes and items that are perfect for the cold season when you want to eat hot pot!
table of contents
- 1 The appeal of hot pot dishes that brighten up your winter dinner table and the must-have staples
- 2 Points to consider when choosing a portable stove
- 3 Things to keep in mind when choosing a clay pot
- 4 The choice of a versatile earthenware pot that serves two purposes
- 5 The role of the serving bowl
- 6 Introducing our special recipes for epi recipes
- 7 summary
The appeal of hot pot dishes that brighten up your winter dinner table and the must-have staples
When the cold weather really sets in, you start to crave hot pot dishes.
This time, we'll be introducing items you'll want to have on hand to make the most of hot pot season. From portable stoves and earthenware pots to serving bowls, we'll take a closer look at the essential tools for a comfortable hot pot party.
Points to consider when choosing a portable stove
The first thing you need to enjoy hot pot cooking is a portable stove. Recent portable stoves have greatly improved in safety and functionality, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in how comfortable you are with hot pot cooking.
Designed to accommodate large earthenware pots
Conventional portable stoves were designed to be used with donabe pots up to size 9, but some of the latest models have been designed with the burner in mind, allowing them to accommodate donabe pots up to size 10 without increasing the size of the unit. This difference is a big attraction for families with large families or those who often invite friends over for hot pot parties.
The No. 10 earthenware pot is about 30cm in diameter, making it the perfect size for cooking for 4-5 people. It allows for ample space to add ingredients, so the food won't fall apart and the finished product will look beautiful.
Ease of maintenance is also important
When cooking in a hot pot, overflows and oil splashes are inevitable. A stovetop with a heat-resistant coating prevents dirt from sticking and can be kept clean with just a quick wipe. The glossy finish gives it a luxurious feel and looks beautiful on the table.
Things to keep in mind when choosing a clay pot
Earthenware pots are the star of hot pot cooking. Ceramic pots have been used in Japan since ancient times, but Banko ware from Mie Prefecture is said to account for about 80% of earthenware pot production. Banko ware earthenware pots are highly heat-resistant and feature far-infrared rays that allow ingredients to be slowly heated.
How to choose a size
Donabe sizes are expressed in "go," with No. 1 corresponding to a diameter of approximately 3cm. For an average household, it's a good idea to choose a size based on the following guidelines.
| size | Suitable number of people | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| No. 6-7 | 1-2 people | Single-person hotpot, suitable for couples |
| No. 8 | 2-3 people | For small families |
| No. 9 | 3-4 people | Standard family-friendly |
| No. 10 | 4-5 people | For guests and parties |
No. 9 is the most versatile size and is chosen by many households. If you choose a slightly larger size, you can fit plenty of ingredients in it, which is convenient.
design
Donabe pots these days are not only available in traditional Japanese designs, but also in more modern styles. A donabe pot decorated with a chrysanthemum pattern will brighten up your dining table just by placing it on the table. Subdued colors such as the blue of the lapis lazuli glaze blend in well with both Japanese and Western dining tables, so you can use it with confidence when you have guests over.
The importance of trivets
When using a donabe, be sure to use a trivet. Donabe pots have excellent heat retention, so if you place them directly on the table, the heat can cause discoloration or damage. If you choose a product that comes with a trivet, you can use it right away, which is convenient.
The choice of a versatile earthenware pot that serves two purposes
Among donabe pots, there is a type called "Takijouzu donabe" that is specialized not only for hot pot cooking but also for cooking rice. This type of donabe heats ingredients slowly using low-speed heating, bringing out the natural flavor of the ingredients.
Ideal for hot pot dishes
Of course, it can also be used for regular hot pot cooking. Its versatility means it can be used for any type of hot pot, such as mizutaki, yosenabe, and miso nabe, making it perfect for those who want to use one donabe for various purposes.
Makes a great gift
Earthenware pots are also popular as gifts for important milestones in life, such as weddings, housewarmings, and 60th birthdays. Their reliable Japanese-made quality and long-lasting durability make them the perfect gift for loved ones. Their calming, amber-glazed color makes them easy to use for people of all ages and blends seamlessly into any kitchen.
The role of the serving bowl
When enjoying hot pot, the small bowl, or "tonsui," is something that is often overlooked. It is a small dish, but it is an important item that determines the comfort of your hot pot cooking.
The history and shape of the rice bowl
The name "tonsui" is written as "drinking water" and is said to have originated from a water vessel used in the tea ceremony. It has been used as a vessel for hot pot dishes since the Edo period.
Modern rice bowls generally have handle-like protrusions to make them easier to hold. These handles make it easier to hold even hot soup and bring it to your mouth.
The joy of collecting multiple patterns
Providing a rice bowl with a different pattern for each family member makes it easy to tell which is mine, and adds a touch of elegance to the dining table. The diverse designs unique to Japanese tableware, such as the rippled "Uzu" pattern, the simple "Kohiki" pattern, and the deep "Kyohennabe" pattern, are enjoyable even just to look at.
If you buy a set of 5, you can easily get different colors and patterns at once. If you have enough dishes for everyone, you can easily serve them.
Can be used for purposes other than serving bowls
While tonsui are often thought of as being exclusively for hotpot dishes, they are actually suitable for everyday use as well. They are just the right size for serving salads, side dishes, and small side dishes, and are easy to pair with both Japanese and Western cuisine.
It is a useful dish that can be used throughout the year, whether you are serving yogurt or fruit for breakfast or side dishes. The modest design of the handle means that it can be used for purposes other than serving bowls as well.
Introducing our special recipes for epi recipes
There are many hotpot recipes in the epi recipes section. Here we will introduce some recipes that are recommended for the cold winter.
summary
Hot pot is an essential part of the Japanese dining table and a wonderful opportunity to deepen communication with family and friends. Having basic utensils such as a portable stove, earthenware pot, and rice bowl will make your hot pot experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
With the coming cold season approaching, why not spend some time with loved ones around a hot pot, enjoying a warm meal? Having new hot pot utensils will make your hot pot cooking experience even more enjoyable.
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