Ginpo Kikka Donabe Japanese Clay Pot 28cm 2.7L - Navy Size 9

Ginpo's Kikka donabe pairs a traditional chrysanthemum relief lid with glaze colours drawn from classic Japanese palettes. The Size 9 pot holds 2.7 litres, a comfortable size for hot pots, stews and simmered dishes for three to four people.

Made from Banko ware clay in Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, it is lighter than many clay pots of its size, making it easier to carry from stove to table. Ginpo's glaze helps the pot hold its heat and resists stains and odours, so it stays fresh with regular use.

Features

• Suitable for gas, oven (lid up to 250°C), microwave and radiant heaters
• Retains heat well, keeping food warm at the table
• Glaze resists stains and odours for easier care
• Relatively light for comfortable handling and washing

Specifications

• Size: Approx. 31.5 × 28.5 × 15.5 cm (width including handles × diameter × height)
• Weight: Approx. 2.3 kg
• Material: Ceramic (Banko ware)
• Capacity: Approx. 2.7 L (3 to 4 people)
• Country of Manufacture: Japan

Before First Use: Seasoning

Ginpo recommends seasoning (medome) before you cook in your donabe for the first time. It seals the tiny pores in the clay, helping to prevent stains and lingering odours.

1. Rinse the pot and let it dry completely.
2. Fill it about 80% with water and bring it to the boil.
3. Turn the heat to low, stir in plain flour mixed with a little water, and mix well. The leaflet in the box gives the amount for your size.
4. Simmer gently on low heat for about 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and leave the pot to cool completely.
5. Discard the mixture, rinse well, and dry thoroughly before use.

Potato starch, rice flour, rice porridge or the cloudy water from rinsing rice can be used instead of flour.

Cooking Tips

• Cook over low to medium heat. Ginpo advises that high heat causes food to scorch and stick.
• Never heat the pot empty, including dry-roasting, and make sure the base is dry before placing it on the heat.
• Suitable for gas and other direct flame, microwave and radiant heaters. It is not suitable for induction cooktops.
• Radiant heaters are fine for simmering and reheating, but they are too gentle for cooking rice.
• A light sauté before simmering is fine, but don't deep fry in the pot. The lid is oven safe up to 250°C.
• You can store leftovers in the pot in the fridge or freezer. Bring frozen food and pot back to room temperature before heating.

Care and Maintenance

• Let the pot cool naturally before washing. Never put a hot lid on a cold sink or run cold water over it.
• Wash by hand with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Don't soak the pot, and avoid the dishwasher, which can lead to mould.
• To lift burnt-on food, simmer 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda per cup of water on low heat for about 10 minutes, leave to cool, then wash gently.
• Dry thoroughly, ideally upside down, before storing in a dry, airy place.
• If the pot starts to seep or smell, simply repeat the seasoning.

For step-by-step photos and more tips, read our guide: How to Prepare and Care for Your Donabe.