Ginpo Hana Mishima Claypot IH 2.2L Size 8

An induction-ready version of Ginpo's Hana Mishima donabe, a household favourite since the 1970s. The Size 8 pot holds 2.2 litres, a comfortable size for simmered dishes and hot pots for two to three people, and works on both gas and induction cooktops.

Made from Banko ware clay in Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, the pot is finished with hand-applied Mishima decoration, a technique first used on tea bowls. The thick clay body holds heat well, so food stays warm at the table long after the heat is turned off.

Features

• Suitable for gas, induction, oven (lid up to 250°C), microwave and radiant heaters
• Generous 2.2 litre capacity for two to three people
• Heat-retentive clay keeps hot pots and stews warm through the meal
• Hand-painted Mishima decoration, so each pot is slightly individual

Specifications

• Size: Approx. 27.5 × 25 × 14 cm (width including handles × diameter × height)
• Weight: Approx. 2.2 kg
• Material: Ceramic (Banko ware)
• Capacity: Approx. 2.2 L (2 to 3 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, lingering odours and mould.

1. Fill the pot about 80% with water and bring it to the boil.
2. Turn the heat down to low and stir in plain flour mixed with a little water: 2 tablespoons for Size 8, 3 for Size 9 and 4 for Size 10.
3. Simmer gently on low for about 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and leave the pot to cool completely.
4. Rinse it clean and let it dry thoroughly before use.

Potato starch, rice flour, rice porridge or the cloudy water from rinsing rice also work.

Using on Induction

• This IH version has a perforated metal plate in the bottom of the pot. The plate is what heats up on an induction cooktop, so keep it in place whenever you cook on induction.
• Use a low to medium setting and avoid high or boost settings, which can scorch food and stress the clay.
• Induction heats quickly, so never switch on with the pot empty. Make sure the base is dry and the pot sits flat in the centre of the cooking zone.
• The pot also works on a gas flame. Radiant and coil electric cooktops are fine for warming, but not recommended for cooking rice.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as putting a hot pot or lid on a cold sink or running cold water over it.
• For the first five uses, avoid strongly flavoured dishes like curry or kimchi, and don't leave food sitting in the pot after cooking.
• The lid is oven safe up to 250°C.
• Don't use the pot for deep-frying or tempura.

Care and Maintenance

• Let the pot cool naturally before washing.
• Wash by hand with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Don't soak it or put it in the dishwasher.
• Dry thoroughly, ideally upside down, before storing in a dry, airy place to prevent mould.
• 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.