We have received a new shipment of mortars, pestles, and natto bowls from Yamatadahanatouen, which has a workshop in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture.


[Mortar JUJU mortier]
The "Hamon Kushime" mortar took about nine years to complete. The beautiful curved grinding surface of the "Hamon Kushime" allows the pestle to firmly contact the grinding surface, preventing ingredients from escaping while grinding, allowing you to grind quickly with less force. It can be used with either right-handed or left-handed grinders. Available in 4-inch and 6-inch sizes.


[Japanese pepper paste]
Kato Tomoya himself went to the mountains during the coldest time of the year when the moisture in the wood is at its lowest, and cut down a Japanese pepper tree to make a pestle. It has long been said that Japanese pepper tree is the best material for making a pestle. This is because Japanese pepper tree has a detoxifying effect, and the small amount of Japanese pepper shaved off during the pestle grinding process is said to prevent food poisoning when mixed with the ingredients. The subtle fragrance of Japanese pepper also enhances the flavor of the food.


[Natto bowl]
This is a special natto bowl from Yamatada Katouen. A beautifully shaped natto bowl that will brighten up your dining table just by having it there. It has a slightly larger spout to make it easier to pour the natto into. The inside of the bowl has grooves carved into it, just like a mortar, and these uneven surfaces create a small gap between the natto and the bowl, allowing just the right amount of air to get in when mixing, resulting in soft, mild, and delicious natto.

Click here for a list of works by Yamatada Katoen