You’ve eaten out at local macrobiotic restaurants, learned some background of macrobiotic theory, and decided you’re ready to give it a go. Now what? There are some essential tools, pantry items, and groceries, which will help get you started on transitioning into this new lifestyle. Let's start with cookware.
Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Pressure cookers are used primarily for cooking grains and legumes (beans), and serve two purposes: they preserve vitamins and minerals in the food, and significantly cut down on cooking times. The 4-5 quart size will do nicely.Medium or Large Cast Iron Skillet
Cast iron is a fantastic vehicle to cook in. Yes, iron leeches into your food, but unless you are one of the rare sufferers of iron overload (hemochromatosis), a little extra iron is a good thing. If you’re lucky, Grandma or Mom passed her well-seasoned skillet on to you, but if you are buying one new, make sure to season it properly. Coat it inside and out with vegetable oil, and place in a warm oven for at least one hour. You may want to do this a few times before using, as it creates a “non-stick” surface. Always wash your pan gently with soap; do not soak or scrub, as you’ll have to start all over again with the seasoning process.
Medium Suribachi and Surikogi
This is a Japanese mortar and pestle bowl, unique in that it has ridges running along the inside of the bowl, which aid in the grinding process. If time is a premium (as it is for many of us), invest in a mini food processor, electric spice or coffee grinder. I have a Braun coffee grinder that I’ve had for years, and it’s indispensable, inexpensive and FAST. Whichever tool you opt for, you’ll be using it to grind spices, seeds, and pastes.Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven (such as Le Creuset)
These are a bit pricey but a good long-term investment. Dutch ovens are great for roasting, braising, and slow cooking. NEVER scrub an enameled pan as it will ruin the coating in a matter of months.
Medium-Sized Salad Press
These are generally found in Japanese supply stores or online, and are used for making quick pickles and pressed salads. You can always substitute a stainless steel or glass bowl, using a plate with a 3-5 pound weight (like a can of tomatoes or jug of water) on top to press the vegetables.Additional Items
I highly recommend owning several pieces of good, heavy bottomed stainless steel cookware in various sizes: two saucepans, a soup pot and a 10-12” skillet will do fine. Consider investing in a vertical, or wand, blender. These are fantastic for puréeing soups and making vinaigrettes. In addition, invest in some good steel knives, such as Henckels, Sabatier, Global, or Masahiro. Various sized wood en spoons are essential for stirring food. Avoid using plastic in your kitchen as much as possible, opting instead for glass or steel.
