KAKOMI Steam Plate 180mm: Setup, Care and Everyday Uses

A simple steam insert for your KAKOMI pot

The KAKOMI Steam Plate 180mm is a stainless steel insert designed to sit inside your KAKOMI enamel pot or donabe, letting you steam vegetables and other foods directly in the pot. It measures φ180 x H45 x W185 mm and weighs about 150 g. This guide covers setup, safe use, and care so you can get the most from it.

Before you start, check that you have a compatible pot: the steam plate is intended for use with KAKOMI series enamel pots or clay pots (donabe). Always use the plate with water or hot liquid in the pot—never preheat an empty pot with the plate inside.

Setting up the steam plate for steaming

Follow these steps each time you steam. The plate is hot during and after use, so handle it with care.

1. Place the plate in the pot: Set the steam plate inside your KAKOMI enamel pot or donabe. The plate's legs should rest on the bottom of the pot.
2. Add water or hot liquid: Pour water or hot liquid into the pot until it reaches just below the plate. The pot must always contain liquid while the plate is in use to prevent empty heating.
3. Arrange your food: Place vegetables or other foods on top of the plate in a single layer for even steaming.
4. Heat and monitor: Cover the pot and apply heat according to your recipe. Never let the pot boil dry. The plate and pot become very hot; use mitts or tongs when removing the plate.
5. Remove carefully: After cooking, lift the plate out using heat-safe tools. Do not touch it with bare hands.

Steaming vegetables in a donabe

The steam plate is a practical way to steam vegetables in your donabe or enamel pot. Because the plate raises food above the liquid, vegetables cook gently and retain more texture than boiling. You can steam leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, or sliced root vegetables. Keep pieces similar in size for even cooking.

Remember that the plate is not a rack for high-heat dry cooking—it must always be used with liquid in the pot. This method works best for quick-cooking vegetables; dense items may need longer time, but always keep an eye on the water level.

Key specifications and compatibility

• KAKOMI スチームプレート 180mm: φ180 x H45 x W185 mm / 約150 g The size fits KAKOMI pots; check your pot's inner diameter to ensure the plate sits securely.

  

• KAKOMI スチームプレート 180mm: 18-8 stainless steel, dishwasher safe, made in China Durable and easy to clean, but hand washing is also fine to preserve finish.
• KAKOMI スチームプレート 180mm: Use with KAKOMI enamel pot or clay pot; always with water or hot liquid; do not use in microwave Ensures safe operation and prevents damage to the plate or pot.

Cleaning and care for the 180mm steam plate

The steam plate is dishwasher safe, but you can also wash it by hand with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, as they can scratch the stainless steel surface. After washing, dry the plate thoroughly with a towel and store it in a dry place, away from other metal items to prevent rust and scratches.

If you use the plate in a clay pot, you may notice gray metal marks on the pot's interior where the legs rub. These are called 'metal marks' and are harmless. To remove them, gently rub with a melamine sponge. Regular care will keep your steam plate looking good and functioning well.

Safety and usage reminders

• Never use in a microwave: The stainless steel plate is not microwave-safe.
• Do not preheat empty: Always have water or liquid in the pot before heating to avoid empty heating and potential damage.
• Hot surface: The plate and pot become very hot during and after use. Use heat-resistant gloves or tongs.
• Avoid metal contact during storage: Store separately or with protection to prevent scratches and rust.