The Living Cookware: Understanding the Beauty of an Aging Donabe
Most modern cookware is designed to resist change. It looks the same on day one as it does after a hundred uses. But a different philosophy lies at the heart of traditional Japanese cookware. A donabe, or Japanese clay pot, is not static; it is a piece of living cookware that evolves, telling a story of the meals and memories it has shared.
If you have ever ordered a simmering dish in an old Japanese restaurant, you may have seen it served in an earthenware pot darkened with age, covered in a web of fine lines. This is the mark of a well-loved pot, one that has deepened the flavour of countless meals. This aesthetic of finding beauty in imperfection is a cherished part of Japanese culture.
The Soul of a Japanese Clay Pot
A common question we receive is about the fine cracks that appear on a donabe over time. Far from being a flaw, this network of lines, known as kannyu or crazing, is the natural and celebrated result of the pot's traditional construction. It is a sign that your donabe is settling into its role, its character deepening with every use. We believe every Japanese clay pot is a piece of tradition, and this beautiful aging process is part of its story.
The Nature of Japanese Pottery Clay
The secret lies in the material itself. Japanese donabe are crafted from special clay sourced from regions with deep pottery histories. This clay is naturally porous. When fired, it creates a structure that breathes, allowing it to withstand high heat and retain it evenly for slow, flavourful cooking. This porosity is also what allows the pot to develop its unique crazing over time.
To get the most from your donabe and guide its aging process, here are some essential care tips.
1. Initial Seasoning with Rice Porridge (Medome)
Before its first use, you must season your donabe. This is traditionally done by making a simple rice porridge (okayu) in it. The starch from the rice seeps into the clay's microscopic pores, sealing the pot. This initial step, called medome, strengthens the donabe, helps prevent food odours from absorbing, and is the first step in its long life.
2. Respect the Heat
A clay pot holds heat incredibly well, which is wonderful for serving. Be mindful that placing a very hot donabe on a plastic or wooden trivet can cause damage. More importantly, always avoid thermal shock. Never place a hot pot in cold water or a cold pot on high heat. Allow it to heat up gradually and cool down completely before washing.
3. Embrace the Crazing
As you use your donabe, you will notice fine lines appearing on the surface. This is the crazing (kannyu) we mentioned. Embrace it! These lines are proof of the delicious meals you have cooked and the stories your pot could tell. It is the visual journey of your donabe, making it uniquely yours.
A Crucial Safety Note: Please understand that this fine, surface-level crazing is very different from a structural crack caused by dropping the pot or from severe heat shock. If your donabe ever leaks, it is no longer safe to use and should be retired.
Using a donabe is more than just cooking; it is about engaging with a tradition and creating a unique piece for your kitchen that gets better with age.
Click here to explore our collection of Japanese Donabe Clay Pots.
*Kai is the author of the article. Kai is our product specialist at My Cookware®.
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