PETARI is a Japanese brand of rice cookers and ceramic casseroles, crafted in Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture. Placed directly on the fire, these donabe cook rice slowly, making it tender and slightly sweet, just as we like it in Japan.
À découvrir
What is a donabe?
A donabe is a Japanese terracotta cooker designed for slow cooking over fire. It is used for rice, stews, and steaming. Its strength comes from its material: a porous clay that accumulates heat and releases it gently, unlike a metal pot that transmits heat too quickly.
A banko ceramic from Yokkaichi
PETARI is born in Yokkaichi, in Mie Prefecture, the birthplace of banko ceramics, banko-yaki. Each piece is a terracotta shaped from a natural blend, fired around 1,200 degrees, and capable of withstanding extreme heat up to 650 degrees. Lead- and cadmium-free, it is made to last and to be used directly on the fire without worry.
A shape inspired by the toban
The design of PETARI is inspired by traditional cooking plates, the toban. The pieces are shallow, without handles, with wide edges that offer a good grip. The result: an object that naturally goes from the kitchen to the table without transferring.
Why the rice tastes better
It all comes down to the starch. When heated, an enzyme called amylase breaks down the starch in the rice into sugars, and it is most active between 40 and 60 degrees. Since the ceramic slowly passes through this temperature range, the rice has time to develop all its sweetness. The result is shiny, tender, and delicately sweet grains, which you don’t get with an electric or metal cooker.
A gentle and enveloping heat
The shallow shape and thick lid diffuse heat from top and bottom, like far-infrared rays. Food cooks gently, and the precise fit between the body and lid ensures a seal that keeps all the flavor. Vegetables release their natural umami, and the rice becomes tender.
Easy to live with daily
PETARI sits directly on a flame, goes in the oven, and even in the microwave. However, it is not compatible with induction cooktops and must be washed by hand. Thanks to a low-absorption glaze, there is no need to season the cooker before first use: it is ready to serve immediately.
Which size to choose?
The 2-cup rice cooker is suitable for two or three people, about 300 grams of rice. For shared dishes, the pots come in 18, 24, and 30 cm sizes and go from stove to table, available in two finishes, Jet Black or Igneous Rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a PETARI cooker be used on induction?
No. PETARI can be used on the stove, in the oven, and in the microwave, but not on an induction cooktop.
Do you need to season a PETARI before first use?
No. Its low-absorption glaze makes it ready to use right out of the box.
For how many people is the 2-cup rice cooker?
For two to three people, about 300 grams of rice.
What is banko ceramic?
A traditional Japanese ceramic from Yokkaichi, in Mie prefecture, known for its heat resistance, making it an ideal material for donabe.
How to wash a PETARI donabe?
By hand, no dishwasher.
Selected by Maison Godillot, your online Japanese objects house. Discover the PETARI collection, our selection of Japanese rice cookers, and our other kitchen items.
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