About Zojirushi America Corporation

Treasuring Everyday Life

From the Zojirushi Vault: The Pelican Pot

Posted on January 26, 2024 by Zojirushi America Corporation

Hello Zo family! Are you ready to delve into a bit of history, infused with the charm of our vintage water pots? Let’s travel back to the late 1940s when Zojirushi introduced a marvel of innovation to Japanese dining tables: the Pelican Pot.

This wasn’t just any thermal carafe; it marked our foray into vacuum-insulated technology in the post-WWII era, offering a symbol of comfort and luxury with every pour. Join us in this nostalgic journey to when the Pelican Pot became an integral part of our heritage.

Meet the “Magic Jar”

The “mahobin“ or vacuum flask, also known as the “magic jar” in Japan, is a key household item with its roots deeply embedded in Osaka. Osaka first domestically produced the mahobin around 1912, leveraging the region’s expertise in glass and lightbulb production, originating from European innovations.

These flasks were initially largely exported, particularly to Southeast Asia, because of the high demand from European colonists. This export boom led to the development of brand identity in Japan, with Zojirushi emerging as a notable player. Founded in 1918 by the Ishikawa brothers, Zojirushi began as a bottle workshop. It later evolved into a mahobin wholesaler, and introduced the iconic elephant mark as their trademark.

Luxury Turned Everyday Comfort with Insulated Carafes

In post-war Japan, people considered vacuum bottles and insulated carafes a luxury. But Zojirushi, driven by Shigeyuki Ichikawa’s visionary approach, transitioned this luxury into a daily comfort. By 1948, our innovative tabletop pot, designed for the Western dining experience, found its place in countless homes. Known for its unique shape, we called it the “Pelican Pot.”

Its popularity soared, making it a bestseller by 1956. These products, along with the introduction of designs like the floral print flask, cemented Zojirushi’s position as a market leader. The company also ventured into other product lines, notably transitioning to stainless steel vacuum flasks and developing the cook-and-keep-warm rice cooker, marking its evolution into a comprehensive manufacturer of everyday goods. This was a testament to our commitment to blending practicality with luxury, using materials like stainless steel for durability and quality.

Celebrating Our Roots: From Glass Lined Pots to Thermal Carafes

Jumping ahead to 1988, our 70th anniversary, we celebrated by reviving the iconic Pelican Pot, integrating a touch of history into modern dining experiences. Those interested in our legacy can visit our headquarters in Osaka, Japan. Here, you’ll discover a range of innovations, from glass-lined pots that preserve flavor to advanced thermal carafes. We even showcase the Mahobin, the water bottle that supported an Olympic victory – a testament to our technological advancements.

Zojirushi Today

Since the days of the “Pelican Pot”, Zojirushi has continued to innovate, leveraging its vacuum technology in various fields, including space exploration and sports. The company’s mahobin technology has been adapted for extreme conditions, such as withstanding high speeds in space and maintaining temperature for Olympic athletes.

In fact, in 2004, Zojirushi’s stainless-steel bottle was used by the long-distance runner Mizuki Noguchi, during the race she took home gold. Carrying the drinking water that hydrated her during her run, this bottle was a work of craft that kept the liquid temperature at 10° C (50° F). The bottle committed to its job perfectly, enough for Noguchi herself to say, “This bottle saved me.”

These advancements not only demonstrate Zojirushi’s commitment to innovation but also underscore the global impact and versatility of the mahobin, as it continues to be a beloved and essential item in households and industries worldwide. The technology has evolved into today’s coffee pots, water boilers, kettles, and glass lined vacuum carafes.

Do you have cherished memories of the Pelican Pot during family gatherings? Or stories of how Zojirushi’s range, from the traditional water pot to the modern stainless-steel pot, has been a part of your life’s moments?

Share these memories with us by tagging Zojirushi on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Your stories are not just cherished but are a vital part of our history too. #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Zojirushi Thermal Gravity Pot®: The Perfect Hot Beverage Dispenser

Posted on January 16, 2024 by Zojirushi America Corporation

At Zojirushi, we’re not just about creating products but about crafting experiences that enrich your everyday life. Our lineup of Thermal Gravity Pot® Beverage Dispensers, including the SY-BA60, SY-AA25, and AY-AE25 models, are a testament to our century-long commitment to quality, innovation, and meeting the unique needs of our commercial customers. These thermal beverage dispensers use the force of gravity to dispense beverages so that our thermal pots keep beverages tasting fresh for hours while minimizing oxidation at the same time. To ensure they comply with industry standards, they are all NSF certified. Here’s a closer look at what makes our different models of commercial coffee thermal dispensers unique and special from each other.

Thermal Gravity Pot® SY-BA60/60N: Excellence for High-Volume Needs

Our Thermal Gravity Pot® Beverage Dispenser SY-BA60 is a reliable partner for your bustling family gathering, restaurant, or catering service. This appliance is a superb hot beverage dispenser, and an excellent choice to keep beverages tasting fresh for hours. The commercial coffee/tea thermal beverage dispenser is also packed with easy-to-use, easy-to-clean features:

Large Capacity: With an extra-large 1.5-gallon capacity, it’s designed for high volume, ensuring you’re always ready to serve a crowd.
Durability and Heat Retention: Its high-quality stainless steel vacuum liner and durable plastic body, resistant to dents and corrosion, guarantee longevity and consistent performance. The impressive heat retention keeps beverages like coffee, tea, or water, hot and fresh for hours.

Ease of Use and Cleaning: The fold-down handle with a name tag holder, lever-style dispense mechanism, and easily detachable parts for cleaning, make it highly user-friendly.
Design and Aesthetics: Its sleek design is functional and enhances the aesthetic appeal of any serving area.

Watch our product video to learn more:

Thermal Gravity Pot® SY-AA25: Tailored for Versatility

Our Thermal Gravity Pot® SY-AA25 model, another excellent thermal beverage dispenser, takes versatility to the next level. This model offers unique features, such as a detachable serving base that allows it to fit under most brewers. The fold-down handle has a name tag holder so that you and your guests always know which kind of brew is available, and the removable drip tray keeps the dispensing area clean. It features our Brew-Thru® lid (BTL for short) with a mesh filter that helps catch rogue coffee grounds that may filter through some brewers. Here’s why you’ll love this thermal beverage dispenser for your smaller-scale or on-the-go events.

Compact and Efficient: Ideal for smaller spaces while still boasting an impressive 84 oz. capacity, it’s perfect for diverse settings.
High Heat Retention: The stainless-steel vacuum liner ensures beverages remain at the ideal temperature for hours, making it a reliable insulated beverage dispenser for long events.
Customization: With optional features like a taller serving base, it’s customizable to fit your specific service needs.

Thermal Gravity Pot® AY-AE25/25N: The Epitome of Zojirushi Craftsmanship

The Zojirushi Thermal Gravity Pot® Beverage Dispenser AY-AE25/25N is designed to keep beverages fresh for extended periods using the natural force of gravity for dispensing, which minimizes oxidation. Zojirushi is known for our high-quality vacuum insulated glass liners, and this Gravity Pot® features our best high-capacity vacuum-insulated glass liner, ensuring excellent heat retention. It has a capacity of 84 oz. / 2.5 liters and features a high-impact plastic body that resists dents and corrosion. The fold-down handle with a name tag holder, removable drip tray, and an optional taller serving base (7-1/2 inch opening) make it versatile and user-friendly. It also fits under most commercial coffee brewing machines, making it ideal as a commercial coffee thermal dispenser.

Get a closer look at our Thermal Gravity Pot® AY-AE25, along with our lineup of commercial products here:

At Zojirushi, we understand that in the fast-paced world of food service and hospitality, you need solutions that are not only efficient and reliable but also embody a sense of style and sophistication. Our Thermal Gravity Pot® Beverage Dispensers are designed with these principles at their core, ensuring that you can serve your guests with confidence and ease. Now that you know everything there is to know about Zojirushi’s commercial Thermal Gravity Pot®, which one is for you? Make sure to show us how you use your thermal pot at your events by sharing your comments and tagging us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Sukiyaki: Japan’s Heartwarming Dish That Sings ‘Gutsu Gutsu’

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Zojirushi America Corporation

Sukiyaki is a beloved Japanese dish that warms the soul as it fills the stomach. It’s not just a meal; it’s a multisensory experience that starts with the comforting sound of ‘gutsu gutsu’ – an onomatopoeic term that describes the simmering of ingredients in a Japanese hot pot. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the fascinating world of sukiyaki and its significance in Japanese food culture.

History of Sukiyaki

Tracing back to the Meiji era (1868-1912), sukiyaki is a historical dish symbolizing Japan’s social and culinary transformation. Originally a celebratory food for gatherings, it evolved into a comforting staple enjoyed across the country.

The name sukiyaki blend combines ‘suki,’ the Japanese word for spade used by laborers to cook, with ‘yaki,’ meaning grilling. The introduction of beef during the Meiji Restoration turned sukiyaki into a beloved method of savoring this once-scarce delicacy, embodying Japan’s ability to harmonize new influences with time-honored traditions.

Sukiyaki: A Symbol of Japanese Culinary Fellowship

Sukiyaki holds a special place in the heart of Japanese culinary culture, representing more than just a beloved dish—it epitomizes the essence of togetherness and harmony. Sukiyaki is traditionally a shared family style, reflecting the Japanese value of ‘wa‘—social harmony.

Gathered around a single pot, friends and family participate in the cooking process, each person adding and cooking ingredients. This interactive dining experience fosters a sense of community and warmth, making sukiyaki a popular choice for festive occasions and a symbol of unity.

Moreover, sukiyaki’s very evolution—from a luxury dish savored by the few to a comforting meal enjoyed by many—mirrors Japan’s historical journey towards inclusivity and cultural openness. Sukiyaki is a dish that not only serves as food but also as a culinary connection between people. It perfectly represents the spirit of Japanese hospitality and the joy of sharing a meal.

Make Sukiyaki at Home

At home, mastering sukiyaki is about embracing simplicity and quality. Creating a harmonious combination of sweet, salty, and savory elements requires patience as each ingredient is carefully simmered.

A classic sukiyaki recipe includes thinly sliced beef, chunks of nappa cabbage, shirataki noodles, fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced onions, and carrots. Leeks and tofu are also added as well. The cooking sauce is a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi, although some opt for water.

The preparation starts by heating a shallow pot or electric skillet over medium heat. Once heated, the cooking sauce is added and brought to a gentle simmer. The meat is then added to the pot and cooked until it achieves a savory browned perfection. Then, the vegetables and noodles are added, allowing them to cook until tender and infused with flavor. This culinary masterpiece is completed by serving it promptly, accompanied by dipping sauce or a side of beaten egg.

Here are some tips to make it even better:

For a richer flavor, use Wagyu
If using shirataki noodles, rinse them well under running water before cooking.
To make your own dashi, simply simmer kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes in water for 30 minutes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to make sukiyaki. Try adding different vegetables or meats to see what you like best.

Get the full recipe, designed for the Gourmet d’Expert® Electric Skillet (EP-RAC50) here.

Elevate Your Kitchen Game with Zojirushi’s Multicooker EL-CAC60

Posted on December 13, 2023 by Zojirushi America Corporation

Happy December, Zo Fans!

Are you looking for a kitchen appliance that can do it all? Then look no further than the Zojirushi Multicooker EL-CAC60! With its nine menu settings, this kitchen appliance is like a Swiss Army knife, ready to help with sautéing, searing, simmering, slow cooking, steaming, cooking rice, keeping food warm, and even making yogurt! See what sets this Multicooker apart from other kitchen appliances in today’s guide.

The Zojirushi Multicooker EL-CAC60 is made with high-quality materials and construction, with a heavy-duty tri-ply stainless steel cooking pot with resin handles that are resistant to corrosion and rust. The pot has a 10-inch diameter, making it capable of accommodating large cuts of meat or cooking larger batches of food. So, feel free to invite the whole family over, as there’s plenty of room to cook for everyone!

Culinary Applications:

Sauté and sear proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu directly in the pot.
Slow cook soups, stews, and chili on a simmer without the need for constant supervision.
Steam vegetables and fish with the included basket, locking in nutrition and flavor.
Cook various types of rice — from white to brown to quinoa — with the press of a button.
Use the “keep warm” function to maintain the temperature of dishes until ready to serve.
Experiment with making your own yogurt, controlling ingredients for a healthier option.

Functions & Accessories

From a full-color recipe book to inspire your next meal to a measuring cup for precise ingredient additions, each Zojirush Multicooker EL-CAC60 comes equipped with everything you need to maximize your multicooker experience.

Features and accessories include:

A powerful 1,350 watt heating plate for uniform cooking.
An intuitive, upward-facing control panel with an LCD display.
A sturdy, self-standing tempered glass lid.
Dual temperature settings for effortless sautéing and searing.
Smart pre-programmed settings for grains and yogurt, making intricate cooking easy.
A stainless steel steaming basket lets you use the Multicooker for steaming dishes like fish or vegetables.
A rice measuring cup, along with a vibrant recipe book.
Plastic parts are BPA-free for peace of mind.
Practical design elements like a removable power cord and recessed handle for seamless storage and portability.
ETLus certification, ensuring quality and safety.

Recipes

With the Multicooker EL-CAC60, anyone can be a gourmet cook. Check out some of our holiday-friendly slow cooker favorites:

Fettuccine Bolognese – The key to this delicious Italian meat sauce is simmering over low heat for 6 hours to bring out the flavor and richness of each ingredient. The Zojirushi Multicooker’s LO SIMMER setting makes it effortless!

Beef Tamales – These are a savory selection, expertly steamed in the Zojirushi Multicooker to yield a moist, flavorful masa filled with spiced beef, making them a sought-after dish for any festive occasion.

Japanese Nibuta (Braised Pork) – Pork butt or shoulder roast makes delicious, tender nibuta simmered in a sweet soy sauce base. It’s perfect as a main dish or topping for ramen noodle soups.

So, Zo fans, what will you whip up with the Zojirushi Multicooker EL-CAC60? We’re excited to see your creations! Make sure to share your comments and tag us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Atsu Atsu: Exploring the Heartwarming Comfort of Oden

Posted on November 23, 2023 by Zojirushi America Corporation

Oden, also known as Japanese hot pot, is a culinary gem that warms the heart and soul. It is often associated with communal gatherings and celebrations in Japan, such as welcoming in the New Year or celebrating festivals during the winter months. Traditionally, oden comprises various ingredients like daikon radish, konnyaku (a jelly-like ingredient), boiled eggs, and fish cakes, all simmered in a soy-based broth. The slow simmering process allows flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious blend that’s both soothing and satisfying. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about oden, from its history, flavor, and cultural significance. We’ll even share how you can make an easy pot of oden at home with Zojirushi.

History of Oden

The history of oden can be traced back to the late 19th century when it emerged as a popular street food in Japan. Street vendors would set up stalls, particularly during the chilly winter months, to serve this warming dish to passersby. The dish’s humble beginnings reflect its role as a comforting and affordable meal for the masses.

Oden’s origins can be traced back to a dish called “dengaku,” which was simply tofu grilled over an open flame and topped with a miso sauce. Dengaku was a popular dish among Buddhist monks, who would eat it during the winter months to stay warm. Over time, dengaku evolved into oden, with new ingredients added to the broth, such as daikon radish, konnyaku, and fish cakes. The dish became more widely available as restaurants and food stalls began serving it.

Oden quickly gained popularity as a winter staple thanks to its heartwarming and nourishing qualities. Simmering various ingredients in a communal pot created a sense of warmth and togetherness, making it a perfect choice for gatherings with family and friends during the cold season. Today, oden remains a popular dish throughout Japan. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. Oden is often served as a snack or light meal but can also be eaten as a main course.

**The Meaning of “Atsu Atsu“**

Atsu atsu (あつあつ) is a Japanese onomatopoeia that describes something that is hot or steaming. It is often used to describe oden, as the dish is typically served piping hot. The word “atsu atsu” perfectly captures the essence of oden, a dish that is both heartwarming and comforting. Atsu atsu can also be used to describe other foods that are hot, such as ramen, soup, and tempura. It can also describe other things that are hot, such as a bath or a sauna. So, the next time you enjoy a piping hot bowl of soup, you can say, “atsu atsu!”

Regional Variations of Oden

As oden spread across Japan, it underwent regional adaptations, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients. Different regions began to develop their own styles of oden, incorporating popular or abundant ingredients in their areas. This regional diversity is one of the hallmarks of oden. Here are a few examples of regional variations of oden that you might find:

Kanto-style oden: Kanto-style odenis the most common type of oden, characterized by its soy sauce-based broth. Popular ingredients in Kanto-style odeninclude daikon radish, konnyaku, boiled eggs, and fish cakes.

Kansai-style oden: Kansai-style oden is characterized by its sweeter broth, made with a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. Popular ingredients in Kansai-style oden include beef tendon, tofu, and chikuwa (a type of fish cake).
Hokkaido-style oden: Hokkaido-style oden is characterized by its smoky flavor, which comes from cooking the ingredients over an open flame. Popular ingredients in Hokkaido-style oden include seafood, such as scallops and crab, and vegetables, such as potatoes and carrots.

**Popular Oden Ingredients**

Oden is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and the great thing about it is that you can truly make it your own! People often add their own favorite ingredients to oden, such as meatballs, shrimp, or vegetables. Some people also like adding different condiments to their oden, such as Japanese mustard, shichimi togarashi (seven-spice blend), or grated daikon radish.

Some of the most popular oden ingredients include:

Daikon radish: Daikon radish is a Japanese radish known for its mild flavor and crunchy texture. It is a popular ingredient in oden because it absorbs the broth well and adds a touch of sweetness.
Konnyaku: Konnyaku is a jelly-like ingredient made from the corm of the devil’s tongue yam. It is a popular ingredient in oden because it is low in calories and fat and has a unique texture.
Boiled eggs: Boiled eggs are a classic oden ingredient. They add protein and flavor to the broth.
Fish cakes: There are many different types of fish cakes used in oden. Some popular types include chikuwa, satsumaage (a deep-fried fish cake), and hanpen (a steamed fish cake).
Meatballs: Meatballs are a popular addition to oden. They add protein and flavor to the broth.
Vegetables: Some popular vegetables used in oden include potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.

**How to Make Oden at Home**

Now, let’s bring the heartwarming comfort of oden into your kitchen. Here’s a simple guide to making oden at home with your Gourmet d’Expert® Electric Skillet (EP-RAC50). The great thing about this recipe is that you can set it and forget it; before you know it, dinner is served! Click here for the full recipe.

Oden’s food history is a testament to the enduring appeal of this heartwarming dish. From its humble beginnings as street food to its role as a beloved winter staple, oden has continued to evolve and adapt while remaining a symbol of comfort and togetherness in Japanese cuisine. Its regional variations and enduring popularity in modern times showcase the timeless nature of this culinary treasure. How do you like to make your oden? Make sure to show us how you use your tumbler throughout the day by sharing your comments and tagging us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. #Zojirushi #ZoFan