Cellarmate Charmy Clear Storage Jars — Tall
Made in Japan from durable glass and BPA-free Tritan lids, these Charmy Clear jars are our go-to for easy storage. Made from scratch-resistant glass, with a wide mouth design and an easy-to-twist transparent cap, these stackable jars are perfect for storing loose-leaf tea, spices, dry goods, oils, vinegars and more—in the fridge or on the counter. Or try them for pickling, as they are acid-resistant. Every piece in the Charmy line is finished with thoughtful details, like a textured edge around the lid for easy gripping and opening that will still stack flat with the other jars. Available in three large sizes.
Wahei Freiz Deep Frying 3-Piece Set
This Milk Street-exclusive, three-piece set from Wahei Freiz is made for the smoothest, streamlined deep frying experience. The first piece: A deep frying pot, complete with a flat, sturdy base, which allows plenty of depth for oil, sits safely on a burner and makes for more even heating than a sloped wok. The pot has a wide opening, so there’s plenty of room to move utensils freely within and fry evenly.
The second piece is a drop basket, which makes for easy loading and unloading, without risky dropping and splashing even when frying heavy chicken thighs. The stay-cool handles of the fry pot hold the basket so that it functions as a draining rack, too. And the final piece is a custom-fit splatter screen, made of black mesh that’s easy to see through. Using this well-designed set when frying makes for a more even, consistent result, reduces mess and even limits oil waste, as everything drips and drains neatly back into the pot. Bonus: While the set’s designed for frying, we also tested it for pasta and other items that require boiling and draining, and it works like a charm. All three items stack compactly for easy storage.
Suncraft Usuba Knife
Traditionally used in professional kitchens, this small but mighty Usuba knife from Suncraft is a great addition to any knife block. Fashioned with a tall, thin blade that’s slightly curved for rocking, it’s made in Japan from layered VG-10 Damascus steel. Resembling a “mini cleaver,” it’s great for chopping and dicing mirepoix, smashing garlic and ginger, thinly slicing vegetables or thick steaks and chiffonading bundles of herbs. The durable black Pakkawood handle is also comfortable in the hand—not too short like other smaller knives.
Aux Co. Grill Dutch Oven
Light and easy to handle, Aux Co.’s Japanese-designed Grill Dutch Oven heats up quickly for fast, efficient cooking. The vessel comes with a custom-fit rack and lid, plus a handle for easier maneuvering. Try it on the stove (including induction) or our favorite, a toaster oven, for small portions, side dishes and roasts—it’s ideal for one to two people. The lightweight material preheats quickly and is relatively nonstick, for easier release of dishes like a potato gratin. We use ours for roasted vegetables, small casseroles, pork chops, air-frying breaded foods and other small jobs.
Kikka Blue Donabe 10-Inch Casserole
Made in central Japan, this striking blue casserole is a rarity: a ceramic donabe that’s electric-stovetop friendly and doesn’t require seasoning before first use. The donabe is made of banko ware, a traditional stoneware that’s become increasingly rare because of the high skill required to manipulate it. Often fired by direct flame, banko ware is valued for its durability and high heat tolerance. Lightweight and fast-heating, the donabe holds heat longer than other models we’ve tried, even after the heat is turned off, and easy-grip handles make transferring the pot to the table safer. Use the donabe to cook rice, soups, stews, braised dishes or even as a hot pot. The donabe can go on a gas or electric stovetop, as well as in the oven and microwave—and it’s beautiful enough to go from stove to tabletop.