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As an experienced chef, I'm often asked about the secret of every Japanese restaurant when creating and presenting delectable Japanese food. While the answer lies in a harmonious blend of fresh, high-quality ingredients, and carefully honed techniques, the tools you use in the kitchen play an important role as well.
Japanese kitchen utensils are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, functionality, and ability to elevate the cooking process. In this guide, I'll introduce you to some of the most essential Japanese kitchen tools that no self-respecting cook should be without.
From the razor-sharp santoku knife to the versatile nakiri cleaver, you'll discover how these implements can streamline your food preparation, enhance flavor, and bring an authentic touch of Japanese culinary tradition to your cooking.
Whether you're a seasoned Japanese cuisine enthusiast or simply looking to expand your knowledge in Japanese cooking, this article will equip you with the knowledge to wield these tools with confidence and creativity.
What Are The Must Have Kitchen Tools and Equipment?
No successful restaurant is complete without a selection of specialized tools and equipment. While simplicity is at the heart of Japanese cuisine, having the right utensils can elevate your cooking to new heights.
In this section, I will share with you the must-have kitchen tools and equipment you must have in your kitchen.
Takamura Hamono VG10 Stainless Steel Hammered Santoku Knife
No Japanese kitchen is complete without a high-quality chef's knife collection, and the santoku is perhaps the most iconic of them all. I’ve personally used a Santoku throughout my cooking career and I must say when it comes to versatility nothing compares. With its distinctive sheepsfoot blade shape and dimpled surface, the santoku excels at precision tasks like slicing, dicing, and mincing.
Its balanced weight and sharp edge allow for effortless, fluid cutting motions, making it a joy to use for everything from breaking down meats or fish to finely chopping herbs and aromatics.
Beyond the santoku, the deba and usuba knives are also indispensable. The deba's thick, heavy blade is purpose-built for breaking down fish and poultry, while the tall, rectangular usuba is the traditional vegetable knife of choice for creating precise, paper-thin slices of produce.
Pros
- VG10 steel sharpens finely
- Lightweight 144g easy hold
Cons
- Features a slight pattern
Todai Stainless Steel Yakiniku BBQ Clever Tongs
Having innovative tongs is a game-changer for any chef who works with grilled or seared meats. The unique horizontal design allows for easy, hygienic retrieval from the grill, while the thin, non-slip tips make them perfect for delicate handling and arrangement of ingredients.
I particularly love using them as makeshift chopsticks when plating seared proteins or garnishing dishes. Their all-stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy cleaning, making them an indispensable tool in my kitchen.
Pros
- Non-slip tips grip securely
- Lightweight 60g versatile use
- Dishwasher-safe hygienic
Cons
- Only slivey color
Shimomura Stainless Steel Mesh Skimmer
A quality skimmer is a must-have for any chef who takes pride in their sauces, broths, and stocks. The Shimomura Mesh Skimmer's fine mesh efficiently removes impurities and particles, resulting in a crystal-clear, refined liquid.
The generous handle keeps my hands well away from heat, making it a safe and practical tool for long-simmering sessions.
Pros
- Fine mesh skims impurities fast
- Burn-safe 18cm handle
- Made of stainless steel
Cons
- Mesh may wear after years
- May not for large volume pots
Stainless Steel 3-Way Rice Washing Bowl With Strainer
This innovativerice-washing bowl is another game-changer in my kitchen. The dual-directional slope and strategically placed drain holes of this Japanese kitchenware make it effortless to rinse, soak, and strain a variety of ingredients, from delicate greens to heartier starches like rice and pasta.
I love how it seamlessly transitions between different tasks, saving me valuable time and effort. The sturdy stainless steel construction ensures it will withstand the rigors of a professional kitchen for years to come.
Pros
- 3-way design washes strains easy
- 3300ml capacity sturdy steel
- Crafted 18-8 stainless steel
Cons
- No high-heat dishwasher safe
Japanese Mandoline Vegetable and Fruit Slicer
As a chef who values precision and consistency in my knife work, the Benriner Super Mandoline is an indispensable tool. The razor-sharp stainless steel blades deliver clean, uniform cuts every time, whether I'm preparing delicate garnishes or chunky vegetable pieces for stir-fries.
The easy adjustability and included safety device make it a breeze to use, and the versatility of the three different blades means I can tackle a wide range of slicing tasks with ease. This mandoline is a must-have for any serious home cook or professional chef.
Pros
- 6 Pc. Set, 3 Mandoline Types
- Slices various vegetables
- Tray: easy slice collection
Cons
- Sharp blade needs caution
- Shuould dry well
Umezawa Sawara Cypress Hangiri (Wooden Sushi Oke Bowl)
This authentic Japanese hangiri is a true treasure in my kitchen. The natural sawara cypress wood, with its excellent moisture resistance and anti-warping properties, is perfectly suited for the final stages of sushi rice preparation.
The way it absorbs heat and excess moisture while imparting a beautiful sheen to the rice, is unmatched by any modern alternative. I love the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each hangiri, from the hand-shaven inner surface to the reinforcing copper bands. It's not just a tool, but a connection to the rich culinary traditions of Japan.
Pros
- Absorbs moisture cools rice fast
- Natural cypress
- Durable: resists rot & warping
Cons
- Dry well & Keep dry
- Cannot use chlorine detergent
Natural Bamboo Sushi Rolling Mat (Made in Japan)
Having a reliable sushi rolling tool is essential for creating perfectly even and tightly wrapped maki sushi. I, myself, can attest to the superior quality and functionality of a bamboo sushi mat. The all-natural bamboo construction is not only beautiful but also highly durable.
I appreciate that this particular mat is made in Japan to the highest standards, ensuring consistent performance. Beyond sushi, the versatility to use it for tasks like adjusting tamago or cooling cooked foods makes this a true kitchen workhorse.
Although hand-washing is required with this tool, easy care is a small price to pay for such a quality piece of equipment.
Pros
- Polished bamboo rolls tightly
- Wider strong for easy use
- Multi-task tofu draining too
Cons
- Hand wash only
- No dishwasher
Measuring Miso Whisk Muddler & Handy Strainer Set
This specialized set of Japanese tools is important for any chef who prepares miso soup regularly. The stainless steel muddler and whisk allow you to effortlessly measure and fully incorporate the miso paste into the broth, resulting in a silky, flavorful soup every time.
The accompanying fine-mesh strainer is also invaluable for gradually adding thickeners while preventing clumps. This thoughtfully designed set streamlines the miso soup-making process and ensures consistent, restaurant-quality results in the kitchen.
Pros
- Measures dissolves miso precise
- Stainless steel whisk strains smooth
- Versatile for thickener pastes
Cons
- Pot direct use heats handle
- Set lacks storage case
Kinpirakun Wooden Japanese Julienne Peeler Vegetable Shredder
As a chef who values both form and function, I am thoroughly impressed by this beautiful and highly efficient vegetable peeler and shredder. The elegant magnolia wood construction not only looks stunning but also provides a comfortable, slip-resistant grip.
Paired with the ultra-sharp stainless steel blade, this tool makes quick work of julienning, shredding, or peeling a wide variety of vegetables. Whether preparing intricate Japanese dishes or simply adding refined julienne to a salad, this versatile peeler is a true kitchen essential. The combination of style, precision, and ease of use makes it a pleasure to use day in and day out.
Pros
- Stainless blade shreds julienne fast
- Magnolia wood ergonomic grip
Cons
- Strips too thin for some dishes
Bamboo Cleaning Whisk Pot Scrubber (Made in Japan)
This natural bamboo whisk is a brilliant solution for cleaning delicate cookware like cast iron pans and woks. Unlike abrasive sponges or brushes, the soft bamboo fibers gently remove stubborn food residue without stripping the seasoning or protective coating.
I particularly appreciate its usefulness for preparing fish, as it can effectively clean away dark flesh and scales without damaging the fragile skin. As a sustainable and durable alternative to disposable scrubbers, this bamboo whisk is a must-have for any chef who values preserving the integrity of their high-quality pans and dishes.
Pros
- Bamboo scrubs scorches deep
- Eco-friendly no soap preserves iron
Cons
- No dishwasher
Durable Japanese Stainless Steel Metal Chopsticks
Having a beautifully crafted stainless steel chopstick is a game-changer in the kitchen. The attention to detail in the design is truly impressive, from the matte finish to the mirrored tips. The lightweight yet durable construction provides excellent control and grip, making them ideal for delicate sushi, hearty noodle dishes, and everything in between.
Unlike wooden chopsticks, these stainless steel utensils are easy to clean, extremely long-lasting, and won't absorb flavors or odors. For any chef who wants to elevate the dining experience, these chopsticks are a sophisticated and functional addition to the table.
Pros
- Grooved tips grip rice secure
- Lightweight 42g hollow design
- Made of 18-8 stainless steel
Cons
- Metal: May cause burns
Ikenaga Hello Kitty Iron Ball Reusable Iron Supplement for Cooking
As a chef, I'm always looking for ways to improve the nutritional profile of the dishes I prepare. This iron ball is a brilliant and simple solution for adding elemental iron to water, broths, and sauces. By simply boiling this cast-iron ingot, you can dramatically increase the iron content without altering the flavor.
This is especially useful for combating iron deficiency, a common issue, particularly in vegetarian and vegan diets. The fact that this version is crafted in the whimsical shape of Hello Kitty by skilled Japanese artisans only adds to its appeal. A must-have for health-conscious chefs and home cooks alike.
Pros
- Cute cast iron infuses minerals
- Reusable
- No flavor change natural
Cons
- May rust; clean before use
Wahei Freiz Brass Fish Scale Remover
As someone who works extensively with seafood, I can agree with the value of a high-quality fish scaler. This tool from Wahei Freiz is a true game-changer, designed to effortlessly remove fish scales without damaging the delicate flesh.
The well-balanced weight and ergonomic design make the scaling process quick and efficient, far superior to the tedious manual method. Whether preparing whole fish for sashimi, sushi, or other Japanese dishes, this scaler is a valuable addition to any chef's toolkit.
Pros
- Brass head removes scales gentle
- Wood handle grips comfy easy
- Weighted reduces effort quick
Cons
- Brass tarnishes over time
KAI Fish Bone Tweezers
Aside from having a fish scale remover, another important tool is the fishbone tweezer. The high-quality tweezers from KAI Japan make the task a breeze. Crafted from durable stainless steel, they maintain their sharp, precise edge even after repeated use.
The slim, tapered tips allow for the delicate and controlled removal of bones, preventing any damage to the flesh. These tweezers are a must-have for preparing sashimi, fillets, and other seafood dishes where presentation is paramount. Their Japanese-made quality and reliability ensure they will become an indispensable tool in the kitchen.
Pros
- Slanted tips grip bones tight
- Lightweight 35g
- Made of stainless steel
Cons
- Sharp edges need care
Chitose Natural Paulownia Wood Hardwood Cutting Board
As a chef, I place a great deal of importance on the quality and performance of my cutting boards. Having a stunning wooden board checks all the boxes. The lightweight yet durable construction provides a soft, springy surface that is exceptionally gentle on even the sharpest knives.
The natural texture and neutral colour palette also make it a beautiful addition to any kitchen. What I also love about it is its functional and aesthetic merits.
This cutting board's ability to preserve the integrity of my blades is truly invaluable. For any home cook or professional chef seeking a top-tier cutting surface, this Japanese-crafted board is a must-have.
Pros
- Lightweight paulownia springy gentle
- Protects knives retains sharpness
- Easy clean durable elastic
Cons
- Softer wood less sturdy feel
All-Purpose Japanese Turner Narrow Teppanyaki Grill Spatula
This versatile teppanyaki turner is a true workhorse in the kitchen. It combines the precision and quality of Japanese metalwork with the convenience of a multi-purpose cooking tool. While excellent for teppanyaki-style dishes, the sturdy stainless steel construction and comfortable wooden handle make it equally useful for a wide range of Western and global cuisines.
Whether flipping burgers, stirring stir-fries, or serving delicate omelets, this turner's combination of durability, functionality, and elegant design make it an indispensable addition to any chef's arsenal. Its thoughtful features, like the convenient storage options, further cement its status as a kitchen essential.
Pros
- Made of stainless steel
- Wood handle heat-resistant comfy
- Versatile for grill pan use
Cons
- Narrow for large flips only
- Hook storage may snag
Japanese Style Mortar Grinder
If you're struggling to grind any herbs or spices in your kitchen, then this Japanese mortar grinder. The ceramic mortar is the perfect size for grinding a wide variety of ingredients, from delicate herbs and spices to hearty seasonings like sesame seeds.
Its compact design makes it an indispensable tool for preparing small batches of flavorful pastes, rubs, or powders that can elevate any dish. I particularly love using this mortar for grinding and blending aromatic herbs and spices.
The grinding action helps to release the essential oils and maximum flavour, making it an essential step in the preparation of many authentic global cuisines. Whether you're whipping up a fragrant Thai curry paste, a zesty Mediterranean spice blend, or a delicate herb pesto, this ceramic mortar will become your go-to tool for unlocking the true essence of your ingredients.
Pros
- Ceramic grinds herbs sesame fine
- Compact 213g wood handle
- Versatile
Cons
- Small size limits batch volume
- Ceramic chips if dropped
Final Thoughts
Embracing the world of Japanese kitchen tools can transform your culinary experiences, providing both practical benefits and a deeper connection to a rich culinary tradition. These tools, from the precise santoku knife to the durable iron ball, are designed with an emphasis on quality, functionality, and elegance.
They not only streamline your cooking process but also enhance the flavors and presentations of your dishes, allowing you to bring and promote an authentic touch of Japanese cuisine into your kitchen. Whether you are an experienced chef or an enthusiastic home cook, investing in these essential Japanese utensils can elevate your cooking to new heights.
So, equip your kitchen with these indispensable tools and enjoy the journey of creating exquisite, authentic Japanese dishes with confidence and creativity.
