The products we used:
A Colander With Surprising Utility
Bamboo colanders, or “bonzaru,” are almighty Japanese kitchen crafted from natural bamboo. Handwoven by skilled artisans, they’re lightweight, durable, and perfect for everyday use.
Typical colanders are shaped like bowls, designed for straining large amounts of food. That comes at the cost of some utility, though: You can’t let many of the foods you strain stay in the colander, and the colander generally is harder to use outside of straining. Food like pasta will crowd in the middle and form stick clumps unless you remove them quickly. You probably never consider letting fried food sit inside a colander for fear of moisture built up; nobody wants soggy fried chicken or tempura.
Bamboo colanders are different, though, standing out for their practical design.
- Excellent Drainage: The carefully spaced weaving allows water to flow through effortlessly, preventing sogginess in foods like boiled vegetables or noodles.
- Quick Drying: Steam and moisture escape rapidly through the gaps, helping items cool down fast and stay crisp—ideal for keeping your family’s meals fresh.
- Flat and Wide: Food can be spread out, rather than clumped together, further supporting maximum crispness.
- Natural Material: Makes for much better presentation than comparable metal colanders.
The Many Uses for Bamboo Colanders
Because bamboo colanders are shaped like plates, rather than bowls, and because of the density of the bamboo weave, they have a surprising amount of uses compared to typical colanders.
Use As a Draining Tray
Place it over your sink or a bowl to drain washed vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Its stable shape–available in round or square options–prevents rolling, making it safe and efficient for quick prep during dinner rushes.
For Serving Noodles
Serve cold soba, udon, or somen directly on the colander. Cold noodles are less sticky, and the naturally uneven surface of the bamboo makes it even harder for noodles to stick. A 24 cm (9.4 in) size works well for single servings, while larger 30 cm (11.8 in) options suit the whole family. Pair it with a slightly smaller plate underneath for easy cleanup.
As a One-Plate Meal Dish
Use it for simple, balanced lunches like onigiri, toast, or tempura. The ventilation keeps bread or fried foods like tonkatsu crispy, and its natural look adds warmth to your table. Try a 21 cm (8.3 in) for individual portions—perfect for kids’ snacks.
For Drying Vegetables or Making Umeboshi
Harness its breathability for homemade preserved foods. Spread out sliced vegetables or plums to dry evenly in the sun. The bamboo’s antimicrobial properties help maintain hygiene, supporting your efforts to create healthy, traditional treats.
Easy Maintenance for Long-Lasting Use
Caring for your bamboo colander is straightforward, ensuring it stays in top condition for years.
- Rinse with hot water after each use to sterilize and remove residues.
- For oily stains, scrub gently (perhaps with a tawashi) with a neutral detergent along the weave, then rinse thoroughly.
- Dry in a well-ventilated spot or outdoors—stand it upright or hang it to prevent mold.
- Avoid dishwashers; instead, wet it before use to stop food from sticking and ease cleaning.
- Store stacked or in corners to save space in your kitchen.
With proper care, your bamboo colander will serve you well for many years.
Want More Bamboo?
If you’re interested in bamboo colanders, you might also be interested in a magewappa–a traditional bento box made of bamboo.
