How to Cook With a Japanese Ceramic Pot

The Japanese ceramic pot is also known as a donabe. Using this type of pot is an ancient tradition in Asian cuisine. This earthenware container conducts and distributes the heat evenly, surrounding its contents in its own steam and keeps the moisture locked in. Cooking with a donabe is a healthy way to prepare meals because the food's nutritional value is not lost. The pot has a dome-shaped lid and rounded bottom for effective heat circulation.

Things You'll Need

Japanese ceramic pot (donabe)
1 cup cooked rice

2 cups water
Coarse salt

Seasoning Your Pot

Dump one cup of already cooked rice into the pot. Add two cups of water.
Place pot over a gas burner. Heat to a boil (about 10 minutes) until rice is thick and creamy.
Allow the rice to cool to room temperature. Empty it out. Wipe the pot clean. It is now ready for its first use.

Cooking With Your Pot

Chop vegetables and cut meat into chunks. Season as desired.
Place the meat and vegetables into the pot (do not add oil to the pot). Place dome lid firmly onto the ceramic pot.
Cook over a gas burner or bake in an oven, both on a low heat setting. Cook slowly until meat is tender.

Cleaning and Care Of Your Pot

Do not immerse pot in soapy water. Scrub pot out with course salt.
Rinse pot out with water only. Wipe the inside clean.
Allow the pot and dome lid to dry out completely. Store in a dry place until next use.

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