How to Use a Japanese Ceramic Ginger Grater

A Japanese ceramic ginger grater is a small kitchen tool made for one of the most useful finishing ingredients in Japanese cooking: freshly grated ginger. Its textured surface turns a piece of ginger into a fragrant paste, ready for noodles, tofu, fish, dressings, or tea.

Unlike a large metal grater, a ceramic grater is compact and gentle to use. It belongs easily on the table as well as beside the stove.

How to use a ceramic ginger grater

1. Peel the ginger if you prefer, then hold the grater steady on a flat surface.
2. Rub the ginger across the raised ceramic teeth with light pressure.
3. Gather the grated ginger and its juice from the shallow dish.
4. Add it just before serving so its fresh aroma remains clear.

More than ginger

This kind of grater also works beautifully for garlic, daikon, citrus zest, and a small amount of wasabi. Because the tool is compact, it makes sense for the small quantities that bring a dish into balance.

Care after use

Rinse soon after use and use a soft brush to remove any fibres from the textured surface. Let it dry completely before storing. As with any ceramic piece, avoid sudden temperature changes and handle it with care.

See the Japanese Banko Ware Ceramic Ginger Grater, then explore our Kitchen Tools collection for thoughtful Japanese tools made for daily use.