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Nakamura Douki

Japanese Copper Oroshigane Grater

Japanese Copper Oroshigane Grater

$99.00 USD
$99.00 USD
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Only 2 left in stock

Japanese Copper Oroshigane Grate by Nakamura Douki is designed for cooks who understand that texture is not incidental, but decisive. The grating surface is formed from copper, with each tooth individually hand carved rather than stamped. This hand carving creates minute variation across the surface, allowing ingredients to release moisture gradually instead of being crushed or torn. The result is a noticeably smoother, lighter texture that preserves aroma and freshness rather than diluting it.

The tool features two distinct working surfaces. The front side employs coarser teeth intended for ingredients such as daikon radish, apple, and yam, producing a structured yet clean finish. The reverse side is finished with finer teeth, suited to ingredients that demand greater control, including wasabi, ginger, citrus peel, garlic, and a range of vegetables. This dual sided construction expands its use without compromising precision.

The weight of the copper base stabilizes the tool during use, while the flat profile, side rails, and restrained handle support deliberate movement. This is not a general purpose grater, but a specialized tool that rewards attention, making it valuable to cooks who care about outcome as much as process.

Detail

Size: W 4.3in x L 8.3in / W 11cm x L 21cm
Material: (body) copper, (coating) tin
Weight: Approx 290g / 0.64lb

Each piece is carefully handcrafted, and due to this artisanal process, certain natural variations may occur. These characteristics meet the quality standards set by the maker and do not affect functionality.
Please note that the following are not considered defects and are not eligible for return or exchange:
- Slight inconsistancy of each teeth
- Occasional tin traces on the handle surface
- Subtle color variations from temperature shifts during production
- In rare cases, minor peeling of the tin coating may occur and this does not impact usability

Care ＆ Use

Handling and safety

  • This grater is extremely sharp due to its hand carved copper teeth. Please handle with care to avoid injury, especially when removing it from the box. The grater has weight and is made from a hard material, so caution is required when carrying or positioning it. Always keep it out of reach of children.
  • When in use, place the grater on a flat, stable surface such as a bowl, cutting board, or tray to take advantage of its weight. Using the full grating surface and applying gentle, even pressure will produce better results and reduce strain.

Intended use

  • The coarse side is suitable for ingredients such as daikon radish, apple, and yam.

    The fine side is ideal for wasabi, ginger, yuzu, garlic, and yam, and can also be used for carrot, onion, long onion, lotus root, turnip, cucumber, mushroom, and mixed grated preparations.
  • Do not use the grater on frozen foods, bones, cheese, rock salt, or other hard materials, as this may damage the teeth.

Cleaning and daily care

  • Before first use, wash the grater once with a mild kitchen detergent. After each use, rinse promptly and gently scrub with a brush to remove food fibers trapped between the teeth. Do not leave food residue on the surface.
  • After washing, wipe off moisture with a dry cloth and allow the grater to dry completely before storage. Wash separately to prevent contact with other items that may cause scratches or contamination.
  • Dishwashers and dish dryers should not be used. Avoid chlorine based bleach, abrasive cleansers, steel wool, or polishing agents.

Surface changes and patina

  • Due to the natural properties of copper, the surface may discolor or lose its shine over time as oxidation occurs. This is a normal characteristic of the material and does not pose any hygiene or safety concerns.
  • If green patina develops due to exposure to moisture, salt, or acidic residue, it can be removed by gently rubbing the surface with a mixture of vinegar and salt applied using a cloth or brush, followed by thorough rinsing with water.
  • Dry storage is essential. Green patina does not form when the grater is kept clean and dry. According to official research published by the Japanese health authorities, this patina is not harmful.
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Japanese Copper Cookware: Precision Tools Rooted in Culinary Tradition

Copper has long been revered in Japanese kitchens for its unmatched heat conductivity, making it the material of choice for professional chefs and culinary artisans. Traditional Japanese copper cookware—such as pots, pans, and kettles—has been used for generations in both restaurant and home settings, particularly in the preparation of delicate dishes requiring precision temperature control.

Among these tools, the copper tamagoyaki pan stands out. This rectangular or square pan is essential for making tamagoyaki, the iconic rolled omelet served in sushi restaurants and traditional breakfasts. The even heat distribution of copper ensures that each thin layer of egg cooks evenly, creating a fluffy texture with minimal browning. The gentle heat retention allows the egg to cook softly without drying out, resulting in a tender and flavorful finish. This is especially valued in sushi culture, where the tamagoyaki often serves as the final bite—a delicate balance of texture, sweetness, and warmth. The pan is more than a cooking tool—it’s a cultural instrument tied to the art of sushi.

Brand History

Nakamura Douki is a specialist maker of traditional Japanese copper cookware. For nearly 100 years, four generations of the Nakamura family have dedicated themselves to producing copper pans and pots that meet the high standards of Japan’s top culinary professionals.

From tamagoyaki pans and yukihira pots to tempura and stew pans, their lineup supports a wide range of traditional Japanese cooking. The copper used in each piece is carefully finished with a distinctive baked-on tin lining—a detail that controls high heat and allows the cookware to gradually warm, ensuring flavorful, even results. This level of heat retention and control means eggs cook fluffier, meats stay juicier, and sauces achieve a smoother finish.

Praised by chefs from leading sushi restaurants and kaiseki kitchens, Nakamura Douki's cookware is built not just for performance, but for elevating everyday cooking. As one chef noted, "Home cooks deserve tools as good as the pros," and Nakamura Douki delivers exactly that—timeless, handcrafted copperware that brings out the best in each dish.