Tokoname Sugar Jar | NAKAGAWA MASASHICHI SHOTEN

A Matching Sugar Jar to Pair with the "Salt Jar"

This sugar jar was crafted in collaboration with Yamagen Touen, a third-generation pottery studio located in Tokoname, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns. Designed to complement our long-selling "Salt Jar," it is made with matching aesthetics and dimensions by the same potter.

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Glazed Interior to Prevent Sugar Clumping

At first glance, one might think it’s fine to simply store sugar in the salt jar. However, salt and sugar behave differently: salt clumps in humidity, while sugar hardens when it dries out. The salt jar, designed to absorb and release moisture to keep salt loose, would only make sugar harder. To address this, the sugar jar features a moisture-retentive glaze on the inside, while maintaining the same exterior finish.  

If the sugar does harden, placing a small amount of water on the underside of the lid can help restore it to a smooth, granular state.

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Markings Inside the Lid to Avoid Mix-Ups

While the sugar jar has a glazed interior, the visual and tactile differences between the salt and sugar jars are minimal. This ensures a clean and cohesive look when placed side by side. To avoid confusion between the two, the sugar jar’s lid has a square indentation on its underside for easy identification. This thoughtful detail allows for a quick check while cooking.

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Practical Design for Both Kitchen and Table

Available in the same “White” and “Gray” as the salt jar, the sugar jar boasts the same minimalist design, perfect for leaving out on the kitchen counter. While we recommend pairing it with the salt jar, it also works well as a standalone item. Its stylish design seamlessly fits on the dining table, making it ideal for tea time as well.

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About Sugar

Why Does Sugar Harden?
Sugar is coated with a fine mist of molasses during production to keep it loose. Over time, the moisture evaporates, causing sugar granules to stick together and harden.

Types of Sugar
1. Refined Sugar  
   Made by crystallizing the purified juice of raw materials. Known for its high purity, examples include:  

   - Granulated Sugar: The most commonly used sugar worldwide, derived from the first crystallization process.  
   - Caster Sugar: Produced by recrystallizing the remaining liquid after granulated sugar extraction. A staple in Japan, especially in traditional Japanese cuisine.  
   - Brown Sugar: Made from the remaining liquid after refining caster sugar.  

2. Unrefined Sugar
   Produced by boiling raw sugarcane juice without removing impurities. This type contains more minerals, such as:  
   - Raw Cane Sugar: Made by boiling and concentrating sugarcane juice.  
   - Demerara Sugar: Similar to raw cane sugar but more refined than black sugar.  

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Why Tokoname Ware for Sugar Jars?
Ease of Use: The lid can be opened and closed with one hand, perfect for cooking.  
Moisture Control: Even if sugar hardens, the jar's ceramic properties allow for gradual rehydration by moistening the lid or soaking the jar itself.

 

Important Notes
- This jar is designed for refined sugars like granulated sugar, caster sugar, and brown sugar. While it can be used with unrefined sugars, these types are more susceptible to environmental conditions and may require frequent adjustments.  
- For long-term storage without clumping, consider sealed glass jars for unrefined sugars.

 

FAQs

Q: Oil stains won’t come off. What should I do?
A: The unglazed ceramic absorbs both water and oil. If the surface absorbs oil from hands or cooking, boil the jar with water and baking soda to remove stains more effectively than with water alone.

Q: Why does sugar harden quickly after being placed in the jar?
A: If the jar absorbs moisture from the sugar during dry seasons, the sugar may harden. Before first use, allow the jar to dry slightly after washing, leaving it slightly moist but not wet. Avoid using it while water droplets are present inside, as this may also cause clumping.

Since it is made by hand, there are individual differences in color and shape.

size ｜φ9 × h8.5cm
material｜Tokoname pottery

Made in Aichi prefecture, Japan

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Care Instructions

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Guidelines for Storing Sugar

• Recommended Types: Granulated sugar, white sugar, and brown sugar ("refined sugars").
• Other Sugars: Black sugar and cane sugar ("unrefined sugars") can also be stored but may harden more easily due to sensitivity to temperature and humidity changes. Please use with this in mind.
• Note: Sugars with higher mineral content may be more prone to hardening.

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If Your Sugar Hardens

• Hardening can occur during dry winter months. Use the following method to restore it:
  1. Moisten the lid with water and wipe off excess moisture.
  2. Place the lid on the container.
     Ensure no water droplets come into direct contact with the sugar, as this may cause further hardening.

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If Oil Stains Occur

• This unglazed pottery absorbs both water and oil.
• If you’re hesitant to use detergent, try this method:
  1. Add baking soda to water in a pot.
  2. Submerge the container and gently boil to remove stains.
  • Important: Allow the container to dry completely in a well-ventilated area before reuse to prevent hardening of sugar.

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Product Usage

Before Use

• Wash with water or lukewarm water before first use.
• No seasoning (sealant application) is necessary.
• During dry seasons, follow the same method for moistening the lid (step 1 & 2 above) before use.

During Use

• Avoid using in dishwashers, microwaves, ovens, or on direct heat sources.
• Be cautious of oil absorption.
• Avoid storing in humid areas, as this may cause sugar to harden.
• Do not expose to sudden temperature changes (e.g., rapid heating or cooling).
• If you feel the product has lost effectiveness over time, wash it with water or lukewarm water, dry thoroughly, and reuse.

After Use

• Use a soft sponge to clean. Avoid abrasive detergents or metal scrubbing tools that may cause scratches.
• As the pottery is highly absorbent, do not soak it for extended periods.
• To prevent mold, stains, or moisture damage, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth after washing and store in a well-ventilated area.

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Additional Notes

• Use only for its intended purpose.
• Handle with care to avoid chipping or breakage.
• Discontinue use if cracks or damage occur for safety reasons.
• Each piece is handcrafted, so slight variations in color and shape are natural.
• Discoloration on the surface may occur due to the characteristics of the clay. This does not affect quality.