Nokaji Yamago Iron Frying Pan
I started using this iron frying pan from Nokaji Yamago when I moved.
It's an exquisite piece crafted by Kondo Seisakusho, a blacksmith from Sanjo, Niigata, with 150 years of history.
The iron surface changes its appearance and becomes more seasoned every time it's used over heat.
I can feel the depth and warmth of the tool growing as its character develops.
French Toast for Breakfast
My recent favorite is French toast made in the Nokaji Yamago frying pan.
It's a staple breakfast item that's a joy to make, with simple ingredients and steps, so I don't feel intimidated.
First, I cut a baguette from my favorite bakery a little thick.
I prepare the egg mixture in a Noda Horo bat and soak the bread in it.
While it's soaking, I can make coffee or get ready for the day, which helps me be efficient even on busy mornings.
After that, it's just a matter of cooking, so it's very easy.
Iron frying pans have excellent thermal conductivity and heat up quickly, making them a reliable tool for busy mornings.
What's more, as I use it, the oil seasons it, and it has become surprisingly non-stick.
Cleaning has also become progressively easier, and eventually, I hear I won't even need to oil it after use.
Thanks to this ease of use, cooking in the morning has become much smoother and more pleasant.
The benefits of an iron frying pan, which is excellent for high-temperature cooking, mean that even French toast made with plenty of butter comes out perfectly: crispy and fragrant on the outside, and fluffy on the inside.
When the sweet aroma fills the air after cooking, my appetite naturally awakens.
Each time I finish a dish like this, a small sense of satisfaction lingers in my heart.
Surprising Lightness and Meticulous Design
One of the appealing features of the Nokaji Yamago frying pan is its lightness, which overturns the heavy image of typical iron frying pans.
This makes it easy enough for even a woman to handle with one hand, reducing strain on the arm even during long cooking sessions, allowing for stress-free continuous use.
Furthermore, the handle is slender and designed with an exquisite length, making it easy and comfortable to hold.
It's a user-friendly design that, surprisingly, hasn't been seen before.
Behind this functionality lies the craftsmanship of Sanjo blacksmiths in Niigata, passed down for 150 years.
This frying pan, carefully crafted to suit modern lifestyles while honoring tradition, brings a definite sense of security to daily cooking.
Three Sizes of Frying Pans to Choose From, Depending on Your Needs
The frying pan comes in three sizes: 18cm, 22cm, and 26cm.
I usually use the 22cm one.
For a two-person household, it's not too big and not too small, just the right size for cooking for two.
The 18cm is convenient for a quick side dish, and the 26cm is recommended for households of three or more, or for large groups during camping.
marais Oval Plate
The golden hues of caramelized bananas and powdered sugar against the perfectly browned French toast are beautifully highlighted by the blue marais plate.
The dish on the table, despite being quickly prepared, boasts vibrant colors and a beautifully balanced overall presentation.
The blue plate, with its ample empty space, creates a calming atmosphere and adds a subtle touch of specialness to the morning table.
Another key feature of the "Nokaji Yamago" frying pan is its depth, which makes it easy to use not only for stir-frying but also for small-scale deep-frying.
In this season, when new leaves are budding, enjoying freshly fried asparagus tempura or small sardine karaage, which are in season now, is a luxurious moment that allows one to feel the changing seasons.
