Nagatani-en Donabe Kamadosan Rice Cooker, Small
Best earthenware cooker for home cooks seeking authentic, perfectly textured rice.
Experience authentic Japanese rice with the Nagatani-en Donabe Kamadosan Rice Cooker. Designed for both professional and amateur cooks, this innovative earthenware pot brings traditional flavors to your home without constant supervision. Crafted from Iga clay and enamel, it ensures perfectly textured and delicious rice dishes. Its research-backed design features a thicker build and a unique double lid with steam release holes for optimal cooking. The rustic aesthetic, with striking color contrasts, complements its functional elegance. This Kamadosan Rice Cooker includes a wooden spatula and a table mat for a complete experience.
$378.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
4
/ 245
#4 in Rice Cookers
Price vs Category Average
+110%
Above average
Dimensions
210210160
/ mm x mm x mm
Who it's for
- Gourmet home cooks seeking superior rice texture and flavor
- Culinary enthusiasts desiring a traditional, mindful cooking experience
- Patient chefs valuing even heat distribution for perfect grains
Who should skip it
- Busy cooks preferring the convenience of automated electric cookers
- Casual users wanting low-maintenance, durable kitchen equipment
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable, everyday appliances
Performance breakdown
Rice Texture Precision
Iga clay construction delivers perfectly fluffy, restaurant-quality grains every time.
Heat Retention
Thick earthenware walls maintain consistent internal temperatures for superior starch gelatinization.
Ease of Operation
Double-lid design eliminates the need for constant monitoring during the cycle.
Build Quality
Artisanal craftsmanship ensures a durable, heirloom-grade vessel for daily kitchen use.
Aesthetic Appeal
Rustic, elegant design serves as a beautiful centerpiece for any table.
Versatility
Specialized for rice, though limited by its compact one-liter capacity.
Key Specs
Dimensions
210mm x 210mm x 160mm
Capacity
1 L (34 fl oz)
Material
Iga clay and enamel
Features
- Authentic Japanese taste experience
- No constant supervision required
- Ideal for professional and amateur cooks
- Thicker than other donabe pots
- Double lid with steam release holes
- Includes wooden spatula and table mat
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Nagatani-en Donabe Kamadosan Rice Cooker for its exceptional quality and the superior rice it produces. Many highlight the simple, intuitive design that makes achieving perfectly cooked, fluffy rice surprisingly easy, even for first time donabe users. The craftsmanship is frequently mentioned, contributing to a sense of reliability and lasting value. While some note the initial investment, the consensus is that the resulting delicious rice and the product's durability justify the cost, making it a cherished kitchen item.
Know before you buy
Yes, for the best results, it is recommended to soak your rice for 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the grains to absorb moisture evenly, ensuring a perfect texture throughout.
The double lid acts as a pressure cooker, creating internal pressure that helps the rice cook evenly and develop a superior texture. The steam release holes are precisely calibrated to manage moisture levels, preventing boil-over while maintaining the ideal environment for fluffy grains.
No, this specific model is designed for use on open gas flames only. It is not compatible with induction, electric, or halogen cooktops.
This small Kamadosan is designed to cook approximately 1 to 1.5 cups of dry rice. It is perfectly sized for individuals or couples looking for a single meal's worth of fresh, authentic rice.
Before its first use, you should perform a 'medome' process, which involves boiling a starch-rich mixture like rice porridge in the pot to seal the pores of the clay. After that, simply hand wash the pot with warm water and ensure it is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold.
Absolutely. While it is optimized for white rice, the Kamadosan is excellent for cooking brown rice, mixed rice dishes (takikomi gohan), or even soups and stews. Just be mindful that the porous nature of the clay can absorb strong flavors over time.
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Ready to buy?
$378