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Traditional Japanese Kitchen

robin — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 17:25:04 +0000

From time immemorial the traditional Japanese kitchen has centered around the stove or hearth. A stove made of clay called a kamado was in the center. Pots would be set on top for cooking. This was actually very similar to today’s modern stoves with the exception that it was heated with a fire instead of electricity or gas.

In today’s Japanese kitchen, space is at a premium. Everything is arranged conveniently in as small a space as possible. Since most Japanese recipes use the techniques of broiling, boiling, grilling, steaming and frying, the kitchen is set up to make the most of these cooking techniques. A small gas stove usually takes up the most counter space. They usually have two burners. This stove is used for the majority of dishes needed to make up a meal. Many of these small gas stoves also have a small integrated broiler built in that functions a little like a toaster oven.

A small refrigerator will usually stand at the end of the counter. Most households will have a rice cooker and a microwave. Since most Japanese kitchens do not have a dedicated oven like they do in America, many of the microwaves are hybrids that also allow the cook to bake and toast. Dishwashers are also very rare in a Japanese kitchen. Most dishwashers are small and portable. They can be set up on top of the nearest cabinet. Some kitchens also have a special appliance for heating water. They are programmable and will keep water hot for anything it may be needed for.

In newer homes, a “system kitchen” is often built in instead of having the appliances sitting on top of the cabinets. System kitchens may have the stove, dishwasher and broiler built right into the cabinets. This is a new innovation in Japan.

What’s up with the Japanese Baths?

robin — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:53:08 +0000

At first I didn’t understand the Japanese bath at all. Here in the states most people prefer to take a shower to remove the grim of the day. But the Japanese bath is different. It’s not for cleaning like our baths. It’s more for relaxation and get this . . .you’re actually clean before you get into the bath water. Now, that’s totally different from how we take baths. It makes baths more appealing. Instead of sitting in your own dirty water as we do here, you’re sitting in nice, hot, relaxing, clean water. Boy, that sure sounds good right about now.

Japanese Baths Aren’t Your Ordinary Baths

Visit a Traditional Japanese Home

robin — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 16:55:27 +0000

I love traditional Japanese homes. They are so organic, simple, and so tranquil compared to modern day homes. If you get a chance to visit Japan try to see a traditional Japanese home. If you do, you won’t be disappointed. It is a lovely site to see.