The Ultimate Guide to Equipping Your Kitchen: Tips and Tools from MTC Kitchen

Introduction to MTC Kitchen and Its Products

Japanese cuisine is known for a few things: simplicity, elegance, balance, and respect for the ingredients. For someone who loves Japanese food or wants to learn more about it, MTC Kitchen is a haven for high-quality Japanese kitchenware, knives, cookbooks, and ingredients.

MTC Kitchen is a family-owned business that originated in New York City’s renowned chef’s neighborhood in 2007. The company’s founder, chef and restaurateur Masayuki Takayanagi, aimed to provide exceptional kitchen tools to both professional chefs and home cooks alike. Over the years, MTC Kitchen has grown into a reputable supplier of Japanese knives, tableware, and other Japanese kitchen essentials.

If you’re looking for Japanese cooking ingredients, MTC Kitchen stocks a broad range of Japanese staples and niche food items. From seasonings, dry goods, teas, and sweets, MTC Kitchen has products other grocery stores in the country do not offer. The company is a Japanese food lover’s paradise, with an array of cooking hacks that transport anyone to a Japanese restaurant in Tokyo. Their selection is sourced from small independent producers in Japan who use sustainable farming practices, for top-notch quality ingredients.

The products MTC Kitchen provides include cooking utensils, knives, serveware, tableware, and kitchen accessories from high-end Japanese brands such as Masamoto, Suisin, Takamura, Togiharu, Wusthof, and Zwilling J.A. Henckels. These are well-crafted tools with a traceable history, each with a story to tell about Japanese food culture and tradition.

The kitchenware sections of MTC Kitchen are known for their comprehensive range of Japanese knives. These are often considered the gold standard of kitchen knives and are lauded worldwide for their quality, precision, and durability. Each knife is forged with tremendous craftsmanship by skilled artisans, who have learned this artform through a lineage of knife makers spanning all the way back to the samurai. MTC Kitchen’s knives are used in the finest Japanese kitchens abroad and favored by chefs looking for precise and dependable tools to work with.

If Japanese tableware is what you’re looking for, MTC Kitchen has ceramic dishes, wooden bowls, bamboo baskets, and cast iron pots to give authenticity to your Japanese cooking and create an exquisite dining experience. These are often multifunctional, with unique designs that fit perfectly for Japanese-inspired dishes.

Overall, MTC Kitchen offers the paramount selection of high-quality Japanese kitchenware that anyone can look for. For those who fancy cooking Japanese cuisine or wish to explore the intricacy of Japanese food culture, MTC Kitchen is a must-visit destination. The company commits to provide a shopping experience that transports its customers to Japan, allowing them to learn more about Japanese culinary history and indulge in the richness of Japanese cuisine.

History and Background of MTC Kitchen

MTC Kitchen has been providing quality Japanese kitchenware and restaurant supplies to professional chefs and home cooks alike since 1926. With over 90 years of experience, they have grown to become one of the leading suppliers of Japanese knives and other kitchenware products around the world.

Starting out as a small knife store in Tokyo, MTC Kitchen was founded by Mamoru Tsuchida. Mamoru was a passionate knife maker who wanted to share his craft with the world. He started his business by selling his handmade knives directly to local chefs. His dedication to quality and craftsmanship quickly earned him a reputation as one of the best knife makers in Tokyo.

As his business grew, Mamoru started importing high-quality Japanese knives and kitchenware from other manufacturers. He also began to offer unique and hard-to-find products that were not available anywhere else. The demand for Mamoru’s products grew, and soon he opened his first retail shop in Tokyo.

In the years that followed, MTC Kitchen continued to expand and diversify their product line. They started selling restaurant supplies such as tableware, glassware, and food plating equipment. They also began to offer cooking classes, knife sharpening services, and other related services.

Today, MTC Kitchen has become a go-to destination for anyone who wants to purchase high-quality Japanese knives and kitchenware. With their extensive selection of products, knowledgeable staff, and exceptional customer service, they have built a loyal following among professional chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts worldwide.

The Products Offered by MTC Kitchen

MTC Kitchen offers a wide range of Japanese kitchenware and restaurant supplies. Their product line includes everything from Japanese knives and sharpening stones to cookware, tableware, and food plating equipment. Below are some of the products offered by MTC Kitchen:

Japanese Knives

MTC Kitchen offers an extensive selection of Japanese knives, including gyuto, santoku, petty, and nakiri knives. They carry knives from some of the top Japanese manufacturers, such as Masamoto, Misono, and Tojiro. Their knives are made from high-quality materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and Damascus steel, and are designed for precision cutting and durability.

Sharpening Stones

MTC Kitchen offers a variety of sharpening stones, including water stones and diamond stones. They carry stones from top brands such as Naniwa and Shapton, and offer different grits for sharpening different types of knives. They also offer sharpening services for customers who want to keep their knives in top condition.

Cookware

MTC Kitchen carries a variety of cookware, including traditional iron pans, stainless steel pans, and non-stick pans. They also offer specialty cookware such as donabe (Japanese earthenware pot) and takoyaki (octopus ball) pans. Their cookware is designed for the demands of professional kitchens, but is also great for home cooks.

Tableware

MTC Kitchen offers a wide selection of tableware, including traditional Japanese ceramics, glassware, and stainless steel cutlery. They also carry unique items such as artisanal pottery and handmade chopsticks. Their tableware is perfect for both formal and casual dining.

Food Plating Equipment

MTC Kitchen carries a variety of food plating equipment, such as tweezers, spoons, and squeeze bottles. They offer different shapes and sizes to create unique presentations for dishes. Their food plating equipment is perfect for professional chefs who want to elevate the presentation of their dishes.

In conclusion, MTC Kitchen has a rich history in the Japanese kitchenware industry. They offer a wide range of high-quality products for professional chefs and home cooks alike. Their dedication to quality and craftsmanship has earned them a loyal following around the world. They continue to innovate and expand their product line, and are committed to providing exceptional customer service to their customers.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools and Appliances from MTC Kitchen

When it comes to cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference. MTC Kitchen is a one-stop-shop for all your culinary needs and offers an extensive selection of kitchen tools and appliances. Here are our top picks for must-have kitchen tools and appliances from MTC Kitchen:

Chef’s Knife

A good chef’s knife is an essential tool in any kitchen. The right knife can make chopping, slicing, and dicing a breeze. MTC Kitchen offers a wide variety of knives to suit any budget and skill level. Among their selection, the Moritaka KS Gyuto Chef’s Knife is a standout choice. This knife is handcrafted in Japan and features a sharp, durable blade made of high-quality carbon steel. The handle is also specially crafted to fit comfortably in your hand, providing a secure grip while chopping.

If you’re on a budget, the Tojiro DP Gyuto Chef’s Knife is an excellent alternative. This knife is also made in Japan and features a high-carbon stainless steel blade, ensuring long-lasting sharpness. The ergonomic handle is easy to hold and provides a comfortable grip.

Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is an excellent tool for quickly and precisely slicing vegetables and fruits. It’s especially handy when making dishes that require uniform slices, such as gratins or salads. The Benriner Mandoline Slicer is a reliable choice that offers an adjustable blade for varying thicknesses. It also includes a safety guard to protect your fingers while slicing.

Rice Cooker

If you’re a fan of rice dishes like sushi or stir-fries, investing in a rice cooker is a no-brainer. MTC Kitchen offers a variety of rice cookers to suit any budget and quantity needs. The Tiger JBV-A18U Rice Cooker is an excellent choice for smaller kitchens or couples. This rice cooker can cook up to 10 cups of rice and offers four cooking settings to suit your needs.

For larger families or those who frequently host dinner parties, the Zojirushi NS-ZCC18 Rice Cooker is a fantastic option. This rice cooker can cook up to 10 cups of rice and features advanced technology that measures the temperature and adjusts the cooking time accordingly, ensuring perfectly cooked rice every time. It also offers a variety of settings, including white/mixed, sushi, porridge, sweet, brown, and rinse-free.

Conclusion

MTC Kitchen offers an extensive selection of high-quality kitchen tools and appliances to suit any home cook’s needs. Investing in the right tools can make cooking more enjoyable and efficient, and the right appliances can take your dishes to the next level. Our top picks for must-have kitchen tools and appliances from MTC Kitchen include a chef’s knife, mandoline slicer, and rice cooker. With the right tools in your arsenal, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals in no time.

Japanese-Inspired Cooking Techniques using MTC Kitchen Products

1. Knives

The first and foremost product from MTC Kitchen that we would like to highlight is their knives. Known for their impeccable quality, durability, and precision, knives from MTC Kitchen make Japanese-inspired cooking techniques a breeze. A few of our favourites include the Gyuto Knife and the Deba Knife. The Gyuto Knife is perfect for slicing through meats and vegetables with ease, while the Deba Knife is ideal for filleting fish or chopping small bones. Whichever knife you choose, you can be sure that it will last you for a long time and will make all your kitchen work a lot easier.

2. Japanese Cookware

Japanese-inspired cooking techniques often require specific cookware to achieve their best results. MTC Kitchen offers an extensive range of cookware suitable for these techniques, and each piece is sturdy and durable. When it comes to Japanese cookware, they have it all, from Donabe to Sukiyaki pans, Teapots to Rice cookers, to name but a few. Each product comes in different sizes and designs, ensuring that you find the perfect one to suit your needs. Japanese cookware from MTC Kitchen will not only improve your cooking experience but will also allow you to make your dishes look even more stunning after you’re done cooking.

3. Kitchen Utensils

Apart from knives and cookware, MTC Kitchen also offers a collection of kitchen utensils. Each item is designed to make the Japanese-inspired cooking technique go as smoothly and efficiently as possible. From Spatulas to Tongs, Strainers to Ladles, MTC Kitchen has everything you need to ensure that you can cook to your heart’s content without having to worry about the tools you’re using. These utensils are also made out of high-quality materials that are easy to clean and won’t break easily, making them a complete win-win solution for all your cooking needs.

4. Grilling Tools

Grilling is an important part of Japanese cuisine, and MTC Kitchen has a range of grilling tools to help you perfect this cooking technique. One of the most popular products is the Japanese Binchotan Charcoal, made from carefully selected wood of oak trees. Binchotan Charcoal is known for its high heat retention and long burn time, making it perfect for grilling. Additionally, MTC Kitchen offers Yakitori Grilling Equipment, which includes Yakitori Charcoal Grill, Hida Konro, and Yakitori Sticks. Each product is specifically designed to ensure perfect grilling every time, so you can enjoy mouth-watering Japanese-inspired grilled dishes in the comfort of your home.

If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game and add some Japanese-inspired techniques to your repertoire, then MTC Kitchen is the best place to start. With a wide range of high-quality knives, cookware, kitchen utensils, and grilling tools, you’ll have everything you need to prepare the perfect Japanese-inspired dishes. Each product is carefully crafted with attention to detail and quality, making them long-lasting and reliable. In conclusion, MTC Kitchen offers the perfect combination of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design, providing you with the ultimate cooking experience.

Enhancing Your Culinary Skills with MTC Kitchen’s Online Resources

MTC Kitchen is a one-stop-shop for Japanese knives, cookware, restaurant supplies, and specialty Japanese ingredients. It is every chef’s heaven with a vast variety of kitchen tools and supplies, making them a reliable source of enhancing culinary skills.

But, that’s not all- MTC Kitchen offers a plethora of online resources for aspiring and professional cooks. They have featured YouTube videos, from basic to advanced techniques, and a blog that’s updated regularly with fresh ideas and cooking tips. With these online resources, you can level-up your cuisine game right from your home’s comfort.

Here are five ways you can enhance your culinary skills with MTC Kitchen’s online resources:

1. Sharpening Skills with Knife Techniques

MTC Kitchen offers an extensive selection of Japanese knives and sharpening stones. With their online resources, you can learn how to sharpen your knife or perfect the grip and cutting techniques with ease. You will find tutorials on sharpening stones, optimal cutting angles, and the right knives for a particular dish. With this knowledge, you can bring out the best flavors and textures from your ingredients.

MTC Kitchen has a featured video on “Japanese Knife Sharpening and Techniques,” where you can learn how to sharpen Japanese knives with traditional Japanese water stones. The video details six sharpening techniques that you can use to keep your blade sharp like a professional chef.

2. Learning Japanese Cuisine

Japanese cuisine is unique and diverse, offering a blend of traditional and modern flavors. With MTC Kitchen’s online resources, you can learn how to cook Japanese dishes like a pro. They offer a wide range of Japanese cookbooks, YouTube videos, and blog posts that are dedicated to Japanese cuisine.

One of the videos that MTC Kitchen offers is “How to Make Sushi Rice.” It is a step-by-step guide on how to make sushi rice, with all the tips and tricks that you need to prepare a perfect batch of rice. It also includes essential information about the cooking process and the tools you need to make sushi rice. The video is perfect for beginners!

3. Discovering New Ingredients

Japanese cuisine entails using ingredients that might be unusual to most cooks. With MTC Kitchen’s online resources, you can expand your culinary world by discovering new ingredients.

MTC Kitchen has an extensive range of exceptional Japanese ingredients, and they offer a detailed description of each ingredient. Their blog also features posts on using these ingredients in different dishes and other creative ways.

For instance, you can learn about “A Guide to Japanese Sake” on their blog. It offers a detailed guide on sake’s history and how to choose the right sake for your dish. The blog also features a recipe using sake as the main ingredient that’s worth trying as you level-up your cooking skills.

4. Perfecting Different Cuisines

With MTC Kitchen’s online resources, you can expand your culinary skills beyond Japanese cuisine.

They have a range of books, videos, and blog posts that focus on different cuisines, such as Vietnamese, Italian, French, and many more. You can learn how to make pasta from scratch or how to cook the perfect steak. The online resources offer a detailed explanation of each process and ingredient, making it easy for you to achieve delicious and high-quality dishes.

MTC Kitchen has a featured video on “How to Cook Perfect Steak.” It’s a tutorial on how to choose the right cut of meat, how to season it, and the proper cooking techniques that bring out the best flavors. The video is perfect for aspiring grill masters or anyone who wants to master the art of cooking steak.

5. The Art of Plating

Plating is an underrated part of cooking. It’s the art of presenting food in an aesthetically pleasing manner, but it’s also about showcasing the flavors and textures of a dish.

MTC Kitchen’s online resources not only focus on cooking but also on plating and presentation. They have a range of products that can help you style your plate, from serving dishes to chopsticks. They also have a range of blog posts and videos dedicated to plating.

One of the videos that MTC Kitchen offers is “Japanese Food Plating Techniques.” It’s a tutorial on how to plate Japanese dishes like a professional chef. The video features four different Japanese dishes and how to style each dish, bringing out its unique features.

MTC Kitchen is not only a reliable source of kitchen tools and supplies but also a great resource for aspiring and professional cooks. Their online resources offer a wide range of tutorials, cookbooks, and videos that can enhance your culinary skills. Whether you are a beginner or a master chef, MTC Kitchen has something to offer for everyone.