Bert-san’s Kitchen Hacks

Posted on April 3, 2024 by Bert Tanimoto

What are these? They’re miso balls! Huh? Did you know you could pre-make these little guys and store them in the fridge for a week, or freeze them even longer than that? Wrap them in plastic wrap and yes, miso keeps very well.

To make these, get your ingredients together (dehydrated ones work best) and mix together. Here the ingredients you see are dried wakame (seaweed), fu (a dried wheat gluten) and freeze dried green onions, plus some fresh green onion. BTW, that dried mixture came in a bag that you can buy at a Japanese market! (I never knew dehydrated miso soup ingredients like this existed)Form the miso ball in 1 Tbsp sizes. If you freeze the miso mix for about 10 minutes to firm it up, it might help to make it easier to shape. Then use plastic wrap to store in your fridge for a week, or even better, store in your freezer and it’ll keep for up to three months. One thing about miso, it doesn’t freeze solid so you don’t have to thaw it ahead of time to use it. This makes these miso balls perfect for meal prepping for a week of lunches.

To use your miso ball, just add 200ml (little over 3/4 cup) of hot water, which is just about one full soup bowl. Boom! One serving of REAL miso soup instantly.

It also happens to be the exact capacity of the soup container that comes with your Zojirushi Lunch Jar, if you have one. So instead of bringing the hot soup with you (even though I know you can, in your Lunch Jar), why not add hot water to your miso ball and have it super-fresh?

Just in case you didn’t already know it, you should be aware that leftover rice makes the best fried rice, and leftover rice can be frozen and stored for a month. If you already plan to put away some of your rice after you’ve made a fresh pot, it’s best to put it in an airtight container immediately when it’s still hot, so the steam and moisture gets trapped inside and be there when you’re ready to thaw it in the microwave. No worries if you don’t though, just sprinkle some water on it before microwaving to bring back the moisture. At our house we simply use plastic bags to save space in the freezer.

What’s the best kind of fried rice? Bacon Fried Rice, of course!

Don’t use fresh rice to make fried rice. It’ll tend to get clumpy and not separate as well as it should, leaving areas of the rice not completely covered in the flavor you want. Plop a fried egg on it to make it Bacon Fried Rice á la Tanimoto.

Wait, ice cold drinks next to my Water Boiler? What’s up with that? Just bad photo composition?

Somebody’s got some ’splaining to do…

I know, we missed April Fools—but if you want to fake out your kids or even your adult friends with a clever gelatin trick, try these out. I just thought they were hilarious; plus, who doesn’t like gelatin desserts? (And yes, the ice cream is real)

Just use clear gelatin to get the “ice” for the tropical drink. An ice cube tray works for the mold and all you do is scoop it out. You’re going to have to “float” them and the fruits by partially hardening the gelatin halfway in the glass, then add more of the liquid on top and refrigerate again until the whole drink hardens. Be sure to let the new liquid cool before adding it—you don’t want to melt what’s already in the glass. I used pineapple gelatin mix. By the way, it’s much easier to make something like this if you have a water boiler; the hot water is always ready.

OK, that seems easy. And the orange juice is just gelatin mixed into real O.J.; yeah, I get it. But how did he make those beers?? And the foam?

1. Make apple juice gelatin first, then whip it up to get the foam to appear.

2. Pour the juice carefully into a glass or cup and leave the foam.

3. Spoon the foam onto the top of your “beer” gelatin, then refrigerate.

4. After it hardens, your beer gelatin is ready to fool your friends!

Be sure to account for added sweetener when making gelatin from natural apple or orange juice. You can sweeten the gelatin ice cubes as well, if you want.

Cheers! ¡Salud! Kampai! Serve with a spoon!

Products used in this post: Gourmet d’ Expert® Electric Skillet EP-PBC10, Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-LFC30, Mr. Bento® Stainless Lunch Jar SL-JBE14

Please note that these recipes were not tested by Zojirushi America.

Twas the Night for Zojirushi (revisited)

Posted on December 3, 2023 by Bert Tanimoto

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house–
Nothing was stirring, not even a mouse.
And just when even a mouse wouldn’t squeak,
The Zojirushi products decided to speak!

The Rice Cooker said, “They can’t live without me.
Rice is a staple, their dinners need me.
Whatever the side dish, whatever the soup,
You need fluffy rice, to complete the group.”

“You’re wrong you know,” the Breadmaker said.
“What staple is there, other than bread?
I can bake it fresh, and it smells so good,
Their mornings are mine, that’s understood.”

Wait just a minute. Wait for the spoiler!
“That’s not how this ends,” chimed the Water Boiler.
“It all starts with water and I heat it with ease.
Tea drinkers love me, everyone agrees.”

“So what? Big deal.” said the Toaster Oven.
“I can toast bagels or an English muffin.
I can bake a cake or a whole lasagna
I’m the one and only, I’m tryin’ to tell ya!”

“Ah, but here’s one thing that’s wrong with y’all.
You guys are stuck here, you’re plugged to the wall!”
The Stainless Mugs just started to smile;
“We’re tall and sleek, we’re a lifestyle.”

The Food Jars, they heard this discussion.
They said, “We agree, we second that motion!
We’re essential, maybe the best of the bunch.
Without us, how can you enjoy your lunch?”

And that Gourmet guy, you know the one–
that Tabletop Griddle who has all the fun.
The life of the party, always looking so chic;
let out a sigh and rose up to speak.

“Hold it, listen you all. You’re missing the point!
It’s not who’s great, or who rocks this joint.
We all serve a purpose; we follow a plan.
We make life easier whenever we can.

We all love to cook, and that’s the truth.
We satisfy cravings, or any sweet tooth.
So let’s enjoy what we do–we are truly blessed.
It’s not about skill, or who is the best.”

A sudden silence then came over the kitchen.
The arguing stopped and they started to listen.
The Zojirushi spirit is alive and well.
“He’s right, good point! They started to yell.”

And so it was on that Holiday night,
with the fire in embers and the stars out of sight,
a commotion was settled, the rebellion rejected.
Peace came again, with the kitchen protected.

Zojirushi products were once again quiet
They knew better than to start a riot.
It’s so much better to give up the strife—
they started Treasuring Everyday Life.

(with apologies to Clement Clarke Moore)

Click on images to see past posts from Bert-san

Products used in this post: Rice Cooker NW-QAC10/18, Breadmaker BB-PDC20, Water Boiler CV-JAC40/50, Toaster Oven ET-ZLC30, Stainless Mugs SM-VA60/72, Food Jars SW-KA52H/75H, Gourmet Sizzler® Electric Griddle EA-DCC10

Please note that these recipes were not tested by Zojirushi America.

Complete Your Kitchen with the VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer CV-JAC40/50

Posted on March 18, 2023 by Zojirushi America Corporation

VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer with matching Pressure IH Rice Cooker and Warmer NP-NWC10/18 with a brewed green tea and a delicious bento with chirashi sushi and other japanese side dishes.

Complete your kitchen with Pressure Induction Heating Rice Cooker & Warmer NP-NWC10/18

Have you met our Zojirushi VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer CV-JAC40/50? Whether you’re a tea drinker, coffee lover, or simply need hot water on standby for cooking, this stylish and modern water boiler and warmer is the perfect addition to any home or office. In today’s product guide, we’ll be diving into this water heater’s capabilities and functions, from its unique energy-saving capabilities to its extensive safety features and temperature settings. See for yourself why this water heater is one of our fan favorites!

Standout Technology that Saves Energy and Time

VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer CV-JAC50 and CV-JAC40 side by side showing the height differences between both capacities.

VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer CV-JAC40/50

The Zojirushi VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer uses superior VE (Vacuum-Electric) hybrid technology to keep water hot for hours with minimal electricity. Once the water heater reaches the boiling point of water, which is 212°F, it can maintain one of 4 different keep-warm temperature settings of your choice – 160°F, 175°F, 195°F, and 208°F – all at the press of a button. In a rush? There is an additional Quick Temp mode that brings your water temperature up 160°F, 175°F, or 195°F, without ever having to bring it to a boil!

Additional energy-saving functions include:

Vacuum mode: save electricity by relying on Zojirushi’s exceptional vacuum insulation technology. Just like our mugs and bottles, this water boiler comes with vacuum insulation that will keep your water warm and when used with the Vacuum mode, it will lower electricity use!
Energy-Saving Timer: don’t need hot water at the ready at night? Conserve energy by setting up a delay timer, from 6-16 hours, ensuring your hot water is ready exactly when you need it.

Isolated inner container from the VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer depicting two layers of stainless steel vacuum with vacuum insulation that is wrapped around the container.

Stainless steel double insulation wall keeps water hot with minimum electricity

Committed to Safe Design

You’ll never have to worry about burning yourself when using this appliance correctly. The water boiler’s namesake VE technology keeps the exterior of the unit cool to the touch, making it safe and easy to handle, while the auto shut-off function also prevents the machine from running when the unit is empty or low in water.

The water boiler comes with an automatic dispense-lock which prevents accidental water dispensing and in-lid and in spout guards provide an extra layer of protection preventing leaks in the event it’s tilted or tipped over. As always, all surfaces that come into contact with food or beverage are 100% BPA-free.

Sleek and Intuitive Design

Made in Japan, this appliance is available in two sizes that hold up to 4L or 5L at a time and comes in a stainless steel finish. Not only does this finish offer a sleek and modern look, but is also easy to clean, so you can keep your unit looking like new for years to come.

A key feature of the Zojirushi VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer is its easy-to-read orange LCD control panel, which shows actual water temperatures at all times. The unit also features an easy-to-fill water tank with distinct water level lines, so you can always see the internal water level without having to open the lid and know exactly when it needs to be refilled. This water heater also features a detachable power cord, so you can easily store the appliance away when not in use.

For the coffee lovers out there, this appliance features a Café Drip mode, which pours hot water at a decreased speed, making a perfect pour for brewing pour over drip coffee.

This water heater also sits on a swivel base, so you can move the appliance to make serving your boiling water more convenient. See the unit in action in our dedicated product video:

Feeling inspired? For tea and recipe ideas, visit Zojirushi.com.

Do you have a Zojirushi Water Boiler and Heater at home? What’s your favorite beverage or food to make with this appliance? Share your thoughts, comments, and questions with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Meet the Zojirushi Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-NAC40/50

Posted on December 23, 2022 by Zojirushi America Corporation

Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-NAC40/50

It’s officially winter, which means it’s time to curl up with a hot beverage or meal to get cozy for the holiday season. With the Zojirushi Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-NAC40/50, you can prepare a variety of delicious winter foods and beverages at the touch of a button – from hot teas, quick stews, and instant foods like ramen or oatmeal – making it the perfect winter companion for your home or office. Get to know this popular water boiler in our complete breakdown below and learn how to prepare some of our favorite water boiler recipes, too!

Design & Functionality

The Micom Water Boiler & Warmer features a sleek, contemporary design that comes in a Metallic Black color and in a 4 or 5 liter size. Made for your convenience, the water boiler features a swivel base for easy serving, an easy-to-read wide window water level gauge to show you how much water you have in your water boiler, and a detachable power cord to avoid any tangles when storing.

LCD display shows actual water temperature at all times

There are four keep warm temperature settings that you can set your water heater to, which are 160°F, 175°F, 195°F and 208°F. Not to mention, there is a Quick Temp mode, which reaches 160°F, 175°F or 195°F temperature settings without boiling, shortening your waiting time. Because this water boiler has a micro computerized temperature control system, the LCD display shows accurate water temperatures at all times, and also has an energy-saving timer function between 6-10 hours. You can use this feature to set up a delay timer to boil your water later, by simply pressing the “timer” button.

Swivel base for serving convenience

As always, safety is a top priority for us in our design process, and this Micom water boiler has an auto shut-off feature that prevents water from boiling dry, an automatic dispense lock, and all surfaces that come into contact with food or water are BPA-free.

Use & Care

To use these water boilers, simply fill the water to your desired level of water by referencing the clear water level lines on the inner container of the pot. Close the lid, select your desired temperature, and wait for the water boiler to work its magic! When the warm water has reached your desired temperature setting, the machine will let you know it’s ready by serenading you with a melody. Now all you have to do is press “unlock” and then “dispense” to dispense your water. Note that to use Café Drip mode for drip coffee, simply press the unlock button twice before dispensing.

This water heater features a nonstick coated interior that makes it easier to clean and a detachable lid that you can clean separately. See the water boiler in action:

Easy Water Boiler Recipes

If you’re looking for some easy water boiler recipes, look no further. Here are some of our top recipes you can enjoy for the holidays, and all year long:

Silky Milky Oolong Tea

Silky Milky Oolong Tea – this sweet and creamy tea features a robust taste of oolong. Drink it for a pleasant boost of caffeine and comfort.
Spiced Rooibos Tea – when you’re looking to wind down, indulge in this cinnamon-spiced caffeine-free tea that’s rich in antioxidants.

Green Tea Chicken Stew

Okra, Asparagus, and Cherry Tomato Salad – a quick salad with blanched veggies and a sweet and savory dressing.
Green Tea Chicken Stew – This simple stew uses a green tea-based soup with ginger, sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce. It’s full of umami and bursting with flavor!

Do you have a Zojirushi water boiler at your home or office? What’s your favorite thing to make with your water heater? Remember to share your thoughts, comments, and questions with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Everything You Need to Know About Zojirushi Water Boilers

Posted on October 23, 2022 by Zojirushi America Corporation

When it comes to brewing great-tasting tea and coffee, every drop counts. That’s why we’ve designed our Zojirushi water boilers for maximum efficiency and convenience so that you can have the hot water you need at the touch of a button. If you’re looking for a water boiler to add to your home or office, or want to know more about our lineup, look no further! In today’s guide, we’ll go through all of our water boiler models and their functions – from Café Drip Mode to Quick Temp Modes – to help you choose the best hot water heater for you.

The Basics

First, let’s go through some basics so that you can understand how our hot water heaters are labeled and categorized:

There are three main categories of our water boilers: the Vacuum-Electric Hybrid (VE Hybrid), Micom, and our Commercial size water boiler. We will go through each of these models in detail below.
You will notice that each product will have a number at the end of it. This denotes the water boiler capacity: 30 stands for 3 liters, 40 is for 4 liters, 50 for 5 liters, and so on. If you are looking for a smaller capacity hot water dispenser, you may want to look for a product ending in “30,” if you’re looking for something large, take a look at our products ending in “50.”

The Features

Now we’d like to show you all of the features that make our water boilers uniquely Zojirushi. All of our hot water heaters will include the below, no matter the model:

Micom Technology: a computerized technology that keeps water at a select temperature for as long as it is plugged in.
Safety Auto Shut-off: A function that prevents overheating when no more water is inside or when the lid is open.
Descaling Mode: This important function will help you keep your water boiler sparkling clean, free of mineral accumulation. Just make sure you use it often with citric acid.
Unique dispense mechanism: All our hot water heaters do not require lifting or pouring – just a one-touch or pump dispense!
Other features include:
- Reboil mode
- Dechlorinate Mode
- Convenient lock/unlock feature prevents accidental dispensing
- Sturdy fold-down handle for easy transport

That’s a lot of great features, right? Now, let’s get into the different models to see which hot water dispenser is best for you.

The Models

First, we’d like to introduce you to the Vacuum-Electric Hybrid (VE Hybrid). VE Hybrid models use less electricity to keep water warm and feature quick temp modes to reduce heating times and electricity. There are currently two VE models in our lineup:

VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer CV-JAC40/50

What makes this model unique is all of it’s features! It has 4 Quick Temp modes and four Keep Warm settings: 160°F, 175°F, 195°F, 208°F, a 930-Watt high powered heating element along with its energy-saving timer function that lets you time your hot water out from 6-16 hours out (that’s more than half a day!). Lastly, note that this model has an easy-to-clean nonstick coated stainless steel interior, and comes in a classy Stainless Black color.

VE Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer CV-DCC40/50

This model also has four Keep Warm settings (160°F, 175°F, 195°F, 208°F), but three quick temp modes: 160°F, 175°F, or 195°F. The energy-saving timer function can be set from 6-10 hours, and the exterior is stainless steel, with a non-stick interior. This model comes in a Stainless Dark Brown color.

Next up are our Micom models.

Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-NAC40/50

Comes in a Metallic Black color, which can be paired with the Metallic Black Umami® Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer NL-GAC10/18 for a complete set. Comes in 4L or 5L sizes, so it is ideal for larger households.

Panorama Window® Micom Water Boiler and Warmer CD-LFC30/40/50

This water boiler comes with a unique Panorama Window® which gives you a wider window to view your water levels. It also has a Café Drip mode for slower dispensing, which is especially useful for coffee. Available in three sizes, it comes n a clean white color that will brighten up any space.

Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-WCC30/40

The model comes in either a 3L or 4L size, so it is ideal for both small and medium-sized households. Comes in a Stainless Gray and also features the convenient Café Drip mode.

Micom Water Boiler & Warmer CD-WHC40

This model comes in a Stainless Gray color and features a rust-resistant stainless steel interior. The energy-saving timer function can be set from 6-10 hours, and the Quick Temp modes will keep water warm without needing to reach a boiling point.

Micom Super Boiler CW-PZC22/30

The Super Boiler is a classic and is ideal for smaller households with its 2L and 3L size. It is simple, with just one temperature setting of 208°F, and comes in a White Ballerina design.

Lastly, we have our commercial water boiler, which is ideal for restaurants, office, or tea houses:

“Commercial” Water Boiler & Warmer CD-LTC50

This model has a 5 liter capacity (169oz.), which serves up to 21 cups. There are three keep warm settings, 208°F , 195°F or 175°F, and two QUICK TEMP settings: 195°F or 175°F. The commercial water boiler has a 7-hour delay timer, so you can set your water up to boil the night before, and like all models, has an automatic lock for safety.

The Zojirushi Difference

At Zojirushi, we’re committed to delivering thoughtfully designed appliances that fit perfectly into your everyday needs. For example, all of our Zojirushi water boilers are equipped with a descaling mode, which makes it easier to clean and maintain your water boiler at the touch of a button.

Many of our water boilers also have an easy-to-hear indicator sound, which you can set to fun melodies or beeps that ring when the water is at a boil or is at a low water level. Best of all, Zojirushi water boilers can be set from 6-16 hours, extending the time for your convenience.

Now that you’ve met all of our Zojirushi Water Boilers & Warmers, let us know what you think! Did you learn anything new about our hot water heaters? If you already have a Zojirushi hot water dispenser, make sure to share your thoughts, comments, and questions with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! #Zojirushi #ZoFan