Inspired by Korean stoneware dolsot bowls, traditionally used for bibimbap, these warmly colored, matte-grey porcelain bowls are just the right size for a bowl of rice, miso soup or even late-night ice cream. The snugly fitting bamboo cover keeps food warm and prevents spills during transport, as well as providing elegant visual contrast. We especially love how the lid’s simple handle serves double duty a chopstick rest when placed on the table (it’s considered rude in Chinese culture to stick chopsticks upright into your bowl). The Kkini bowls and chopstick set are produced by JIA, an importer of fine Chinese ceramics and tableware. The company, whose name means “home”, works with international designers to put a modern spin on classic Chinese designs. Try this set for your next dinner for two, with dishes like our Taiwanese Five-Spice Pork with Rice or Chicken Teriyaki Donburi.

The oldest form of Chinese cookware is the ding, a round vessel that in ancient times symbolized power and was used for rituals. This modern cast-iron version recalls the original bronze models of the Shang dynasty but is much better for cooking—the pot heats evenly, works on all stovetops and in the oven, and has a white enameled interior that doesn't require seasoning before the first use. Traditionally, a ding was heated by lighting a small fire between the three legs; we love that JIA retains the three-legged design but features it on a separate base so that the ding can be used on modern cooking surfaces (the base is fitted with silicone so it's non-slip). The semicircular handles of the pot and lid give a visual effect of unity in the design, while the matte black material and raised base look dignified and elegant.

The teacups in JIA's four-piece Persona set are modeled after gaiwan, lidded vessels for loose-leaf tea that can be used both for steeping and serving. The pieces fit neatly together and are designed to be used together for drinking, with the lid holding back leaves as you sip. When you're not using it to cover the cup, rest the lid upside down, with its handle functioning as a base. This keeps the inside of the lid clean and, much like a saucer, the concave interior prevents moisture from dripping onto tabletops. In classic Chinese fashion, the teacups are made of fine, translucent porcelain, which is exceptionally strong despite its thin construction. A different texture on each teacup in the set shows off the delicate material through four different patterns: checkered, dotted, spiral and striped.

Chinese company JIA's three-piece steamer set is more durable and easier to use than a bamboo steamer, with a neat, authentic design. The fireproof ceramic can go directly on the stovetop and is sturdy enough for bigger batches of food—not just traditional dumplings and buns, but also bunches of leafy greens or even cakes—while the pearly glazed finish and chic, seamless handles are beautiful for serving. Because the material is so lightweight, the steamer set can be taken to the table; the steam from the pot continues to keep food warm as you eat. We also appreciate that the clay material dries quicker than bamboo (which can mold if you're not careful) and is easy to clean.

The pot is a glazed fireproof ceramic that can sit directly on a burner. The steamer basket is made from cedar and the sieve base is made from terracotta to absorb excess moisture. You can use this steamer set in the oven or microwave as well. Both well-made and beautiful, we offer personal, large and extra large sizes, depending on your needs!

JIA's steamer set with the additional ceramic rice cooker lid is a steamer and rice cooker in one. The pot is a glazed fireproof ceramic that can sit directly on a burner. The steamer basket is made from cedar, and the sieve base is made from terra cotta to absorb excess moisture. You can use this steamer set in the oven or microwave as well. How to Cook Rice: It is recommended to soak rice for 30 minutes prior to cooking to help retain moisture and speed cooking time. Recommended proportions are 1:1 cups of rice and water. Heat on high for 5 to 8 minutes or until it begins to steam, then change to low heat. Cook for another 5 minutes or until steam begins to lessen. Be careful not to overcook. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow rice to become fluffy.

Crafted from carbon steel, this lightweight pan features high sloped sides, a wide flat cooking area and a long beech wood handle (which won’t overheat). Carbon steel is the best cooking surface for methods like searing, sautéing and stir-fries, because it’s an an excellent conductor of heat. It heats up quickly and is perfect for dry cooking methods, like frying, searing, stir-frying and sautéing.

Unlike other pans with chemical coatings, the pan’s glossy black interior undergoes a special nitriding process, which produces an iron nitride layer that increases durability and prevents rust. The inside is then polished to a shine and given a hammered fish-scale finish to promote air flow under food, both of which ensure incredible nonstick properties straight out of the box with a quick initial seasoning. This sauté pan provides even and intense heat across the entire flat cooking surface. Plus, it works with any cooktop (gas, electric, ceramic and induction) and the accompanying lid, plus its stay-cool handle, is ideal for steaming as well.