Collection: Kobachi Small Bowls

Add Japanese Kobachi Small Bowls

Kobachi small bowls are an essential element in Japanese dining, offering both practicality and beauty. Crafted from high-quality materials such as small ceramic bowls and small glass bowls, these bowls provide a perfect size for serving side dishes, sauces, or small portions of food.

Their elegant design and compact form make them a versatile addition to any kitchen or table setting. Whether you are serving pickles, rice, or condiments, a kobachi bowl enhances the experience with its traditional, yet contemporary appeal.

These bowls also make a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate the artistry and precision of Japanese tableware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kobachi?

A kobachi is a small, shallow bowl traditionally used in Japanese cuisine to serve side dishes, condiments, or sauces. It is versatile enough for a variety of foods, from rice to pickles, and often complements other tableware in a Japanese meal setting.

Kobachi bowls come in different materials, including small ceramic bowls and small glass bowls, each offering unique aesthetic and functional qualities.

What does the name Kobachi mean?

The word "Kobachi" (小鉢) in Japanese directly translates to "small bowl." It refers to the bowl's size and role in the meal, typically used for smaller portions or accompaniments to the main dish.

The name underscores the bowl’s delicate proportions and its use in serving smaller, side dishes in a traditional Japanese meal.

What is tonsui?

A tonsui is a traditional Japanese serving bowl used for various purposes, including serving dipping sauces for tempura, as well as for presenting hot pot dishes (nabe). These bowls are often designed with a small flap on the side, making them easier to hold while eating.

Tonsui bowls are made from a variety of materials, such as ceramic, teak wood, and melamine. Ceramic tonsui bowls come in a range of styles, including celadon green, Japanese Gosu Mino-Yaki, and Mino Ware, which is known for its distinctive deep blue stripes resembling a sea of clouds.

Teak wood tonsui bowls are hand-carved by Indonesian artisans and valued for their durability, while melamine tonsui bowls often feature a sleek black design with brown trim.

What bowls do Japanese use?

Japanese tableware features a wide range of bowls, including kobachi bowls, rice bowls, soup bowls, and larger serving bowls. In traditional Japanese cuisine, small ceramic bowls and small glass bowls are commonly used to serve smaller portions of food, such as side dishes, pickles, or condiments.

These bowls are designed to enhance the dining experience by presenting food in a balanced and visually appealing manner.