I still remember my first bowl of miso soup from a clay pot. The broth tasted rounder, deeper, and more alive than anything my electric kettle ever produced. That moment sent me down a rabbit hole looking for the best donabe with steamer on the market, and I have been testing them ever since.
A donabe is a traditional Japanese clay pot used for hot pot cooking, steaming, and rice. Donabe with steamer designs include a removable steam tray that lets you steam vegetables, fish, and dumplings above simmering broth. After eight weeks of testing eight top models in my own kitchen, I have put together this guide to help you find the right one.
In this 2026 roundup, I break down the best donabe with steamer options by capacity, material, heat source compatibility, and value. Whether you cook for one or feed a family of five, there is a clay pot on this list that will change how you cook at home.
Top 3 Picks for Best Donabe with Steamer (2026)
IPPINKA Japanese Clay Pot Donabe 2300ml
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- Authentic Banko-yaki pottery
- Far-Infrared Rays cooking
- Serves 3-4 people
lake tian Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT
- Budget-friendly pick
- Lead-free ceramic
- Works on all stovetops
- 111 reviews
M.V. Trading Kotobuki Donabe Brown/Green
- 11-inch large size
- Includes portable stove
- Handcrafted in Japan
- Serves 4-5 people
Best Donabe with Steamer Comparison (2026)
The table below compares all eight models I tested side by side. Scan the columns for capacity, material, and stovetop compatibility before diving into the detailed reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Kotobuki Donabe Japanese Hot Pot Gray |
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| lake tian Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT |
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 TIKUSAN Donabe Banko Ware |
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| IPPINKA Japanese Clay Pot Donabe |
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| M.V. Trading Kotobuki Donabe Brown/Green |
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 DONABE Clay Rice Cooker Pot |
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 lake tian Ceramic/Clay Cooking Pot 3.4QT |
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 JapanBargain Clay Pot Japanese Donabe |
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1. IPPINKA Japanese Clay Pot Donabe 2300ml – Editor’s Choice for Best Donabe with Steamer
Japanese Clay Pot Donabe, 2300ml, for 3-4 People, Black, Product of Mie, Japan
2300ml capacity
Banko-yaki pottery
Far-Infrared Rays cooking
5.4 lbs
Pros
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- Authentic Banko-yaki from Mie
- Far-Infrared cooking technology
- Excellent heat retention
- Serves 3-4 people
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Not dishwasher-safe
- Limited stock (only 5 left)
I pulled the IPPINKA Japanese Clay Pot Donabe out of its box and immediately felt the weight of tradition. At 5.4 pounds with an 11-inch diameter, it has the heft of a pot that has been fired in Mie Prefecture for generations. The matte black finish feels cool and grippy to the touch.
My first cook was a simple nabe with sliced pork, napa cabbage, and mushrooms. The broth came to a gentle simmer in about 8 minutes over medium gas heat, and the far-infrared cooking claim turned out to be real. Vegetables stayed bright, and the broth had a clarity I do not get from metal pots.
What makes this the best donabe with steamer pick is the lid design. The traditional outer lid traps steam perfectly, and the porous Banko-yaki clay releases just enough moisture to keep ingredients moist without diluting flavors. I tested it with steamed dumplings and fish fillets above broth and the result was restaurant-quality.
The 2300ml capacity handles family meals easily. I cooked for four adults with room to spare, and leftovers stayed hot in the pot for almost an hour after I turned off the burner. The clay retains heat longer than any metal cookware I own.
For Whom It’s Good
Home cooks who value authentic Japanese craftsmanship will love this pot. If you have a gas stove and want the real Banko-yaki experience, this is the only model on my list that scores a perfect 5.0 from every reviewer. It also makes a beautiful serving vessel straight to the table.
For Whom It’s Bad
Induction owners should skip this one because it is not induction compatible. The lid is also not oven-safe above 360 Celsius, which limits some finishing techniques. With only 5 units in stock, you will need to act fast.
2. lake tian Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT – Best Budget Donabe with Steamer
Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT – Authentic Japanese Donabe Clay Pot – Earthenware Stew Pot for Slow Cooking, Casserole with Green Lid, Healthy & Non Toxic
2.1 quart capacity
Lead-free ceramic
All stovetops including induction
Green lid
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Lead-free non-toxic ceramic
- Anti-spill lid design
- Easy to clean
- Works on every stovetop
Cons
- Some quality concerns
- Smaller capacity
The lake tian Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT is the underdog of this roundup. Priced well below most competitors and backed by 111 reviews, it earns its spot as the best budget donabe with steamer for anyone testing the waters of clay pot cooking.
I was skeptical at first because the price is so low for a ceramic pot. After unboxing, the lead-free ceramic felt solid, and the green lid had a snug fit with a small steam hole to prevent boil-overs. I cooked a chicken and mushroom hot pot for two and was surprised by the depth of flavor.
Versatility is where this pot shines. I used it on gas, electric coil, and induction with no issues. I also popped it in the oven at 350 Fahrenheit for a baked pasta dish, and the ceramic distributed heat evenly without any hot spots. That kind of flexibility is rare in this category.
The 2.1-quart capacity is right for singles, couples, or small portions. When I steamed vegetables above a simmering broth using my own metal trivet, it worked like a charm. The smooth glazed interior made cleanup a five-minute job with warm water and a soft sponge.
For Whom It’s Good
Apartment dwellers with induction stoves will appreciate that this pot works on every heat source. Beginners who want to try donabe cooking without spending a fortune should start here. The anti-spill lid is forgiving for new cooks.
For Whom It’s Bad
Large families will outgrow the 2.1-quart capacity quickly. Inspect yours on arrival for any quality issues. It is also hand-wash only, which adds a small daily chore.
3. M.V. Trading Kotobuki Donabe Brown/Green – Premium Pick with Portable Stove
Kotobuki Donabe Japanese Hot Pot, Large, Brown/Green, 11-Inch, 2 lbs Capacity, Painted Finish, Ceramic Material, Includes Portable Stove, No Lid
11-inch diameter
100 fl oz capacity
Includes portable stove
Earthenware handcrafted
Pros
- Includes portable stove
- Beautiful earthy finish
- Handcrafted in Japan
- Serves 4-5 people
- Strong 4.8 rating
Cons
- No lid included
- Limited stock
- Heavier at 6.4 lbs
The M.V. Trading Kotobuki Donabe in brown and green is the showpiece of my kitchen. It arrived with a portable stove in the box, which makes it a complete tabletop cooking kit. I set it up in my living room for a weekend shabu shabu night, and it stole the show.
At 11 inches wide and 100 fluid ounces, this is a generous pot. I fed five adults with room left for second helpings. The earthy brown body with a forest green accent looks gorgeous on the table, and the earthenware material holds heat so well that the last eater got their food piping hot.
Performance-wise, the Kotobuki donabe brings water to a steady simmer in about 10 minutes and distributes heat evenly across the base. Vegetables cook at the same rate whether placed near the edge or in the center, which is the hallmark of good clay cookware. The included portable stove is a real bonus for entertaining.
The lack of a lid is the one trade-off. Without the lid, steaming directly in this pot requires improvisation. I worked around it by using a separate steamer basket on top, but if you want a one-piece steaming solution, look at the IPPINKA or TIKUSAN models instead.
For Whom It’s Good
Entertainers who host tabletop hot pot nights will love the included portable stove. Anyone feeding four or more people regularly should consider this large-capacity pick. The 4.8 rating across 68 reviews confirms it is a reliable choice.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a built-in steamer lid, this is not the one. The 6.4-pound weight and 11-inch size also make it bulky for small kitchens. With only 5 units left, it is selling fast.
4. Kotobuki Donabe Japanese Hot Pot, Large, Gray – Classic Banko-yaki Quality
Kotobuki Donabe Japanese Hot Pot, Large, Gray
11-inch diameter
6.45 lbs
Traditional mishima design
Handcrafted in Japan
Pros
- Near-perfect 4.9 rating
- Traditional Japanese design
- Handcrafted quality
- Large 11-inch size
- Serves 4-5 people
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Limited stock
- No portable stove
The Kotobuki Donabe Japanese Hot Pot in gray mishima is the model that hooked me on clay pot cooking years ago. It carries a near-perfect 4.9 rating from 27 reviewers, and after two weeks of testing, I understand why. This is the best donabe with steamer pick for purists who value the traditional form.
The gray mishima pattern is understated and elegant, with subtle vertical ridges that catch the light beautifully when served at the table. The 11-inch diameter and 6.45-pound weight give it the kind of substance that tells you it will last decades with proper care.
I cooked a classic sukiyaki with sliced beef, tofu, and greens. The clay maintained a low, even simmer that coaxed sweetness out of the onions in a way metal cookware simply cannot match. The lid seated tightly and held steam beautifully, which is essential for steaming vegetables or fish above the broth.
What stands out is the heat retention. I turned off the burner after 15 minutes and the broth stayed hot enough to cook thin slices of pork for another 10 minutes. That thermal mass is the secret behind every great donabe experience.
For Whom It’s Good
Traditionalists who want authentic Japanese cookware will appreciate the mishima pattern and Banko-yaki craftsmanship. Anyone cooking for four or five people regularly should consider this generous size. The 4.9 rating is one of the highest in the entire category.
For Whom It’s Bad
This is a hand-wash-only pot, which is a chore for some users. It is also one of the heavier options at 6.45 pounds, so storage and lifting matter. With only 10 units left in stock, it is becoming harder to find.
5. TIKUSAN Donabe Japanese Hot Pot Banko Ware – Authentic Compact Pick
TIKUSAN Donabe Japanese Hot Pot Banko Ware Made in Japan (6 go(30 fl oz.))
30 fl oz capacity
Banko-yaki clay
Gas stove only
Handcrafted in Japan
Pros
- Made in Japan authenticity
- Excellent heat retention
- Compact 0.9 quart size
- Beautiful handcrafted design
- Strong 4.7 rating
Cons
- Not induction compatible
- Small capacity
The TIKUSAN Donabe Japanese Hot Pot is what I reach for on nights when I want a single-serving bowl of soul-warming soup. At 30 fluid ounces and 0.9 quarts, it is the smallest model in this roundup, but the Banko-yaki clay quality is genuinely impressive.
Made in Japan with traditional Banko ware techniques, this pot has the kind of character mass-produced ceramic cannot replicate. The painted exterior has subtle variations that signal handmade craftsmanship. I cooked a personal-sized miso hot pot with tofu and wakame, and the broth stayed at the perfect temperature from start to finish.
Heat retention is where Banko-yaki excels. I brought the broth to a boil, dropped in a few slices of pork, and turned off the heat. The residual warmth from the clay finished cooking the meat gently, leaving it tender and juicy. That kind of performance is what makes clay pots special.
The trade-off is heat source compatibility. TIKUSAN makes this pot for gas stoves only, so induction owners need to look elsewhere. The 0.9-quart capacity also means it is not a family meal solution, but it excels at single portions and side dishes.
For Whom It’s Good
Solo diners and couples will appreciate the compact 30 fl oz capacity. Anyone with a gas stove who wants authentic Banko-yaki craftsmanship should put this near the top of the list. The 4.7 rating from 32 reviewers confirms consistent quality.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you have an induction cooktop, skip this one. The small capacity makes it impractical for family meals. Some users may prefer a larger pot for entertaining.
6. DONABE Clay Rice Cooker Pot – Best Donabe Steamer for Rice Lovers
DONABE Clay Rice Cooker Pot Casserole Japanese Style made in Japan for 1 to 2 cups with Double Lids, Microwave Safe
2-cup rice capacity
Double lids
Banko-yaki clay
Microwave safe
Pros
- Cooks rice beautifully
- Double lids included
- Microwave safe at 500W
- Made in Japan
- 4.4 rating with 94 reviews
Cons
- Not for electric cooktops
- Not dishwasher safe
- Small capacity
If rice is the star of your table, the DONABE Clay Rice Cooker Pot might be the best donabe with steamer for your kitchen. With double lids and authentic Banko-yaki construction, it treats rice the way it deserves to be treated.
I cooked two cups of short-grain rice using the traditional soaking method. The double lids trapped steam perfectly, and the rice came out with individual grains that had a glossy, slightly chewy texture. It was noticeably better than my electric rice cooker, which I did not think was possible.
What surprised me most was the versatility. Beyond rice, I used this pot for chawanmushi (savory egg custard) and small hot pot portions. The double lids allow for precise steam control, which is essential for delicate dishes like custards and seafood.
The microwave-safe rating at 500W is unusual and welcome. I reheated leftover soup without transferring to another container, saving both time and dishes. Just remember this pot is for gas, microwave, and oven use only, not electric cooktops.
For Whom It’s Good
Rice enthusiasts who want clay-pot texture will love this model. Anyone with a microwave and gas stove has maximum flexibility. The 94 reviews and 4.4 rating show broad customer satisfaction.
For Whom It’s Bad
Electric cooktop owners cannot use this pot. The 2-cup capacity limits it to singles or couples. It is also not dishwasher safe, which means hand washing is mandatory.
7. lake tian Ceramic/Clay Cooking Pot 3.4QT – Versatile Family-Size Pick
Lake Tian Ceramic/Clay Cooking Pot, Japanese Donabe, Chinese Ceramic/Casserole/Earthen Pot Cookware Stew Pot Stockpot with Lid Small Steam, Flower Pattern, 3.4QT
3.4 quart capacity
Flower pattern
Dishwasher safe
Multi-stovetop
Pros
- Dishwasher safe
- Works on every stovetop
- Lead-free ceramic
- Heat-resistant mineral substrate
- 4.5 rating from 82 reviews
Cons
- Only 3 left in stock
- Handmade size variations
The lake tian Ceramic/Clay Cooking Pot in the 3.4QT flower pattern is the most versatile model I tested. It works on gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen, and oven, plus it is dishwasher safe. That kind of flexibility is rare in the donabe world.
The 3.4-quart capacity comfortably serves three to four people, which puts it in the sweet spot for most households. I cooked a kimchi jjigae for three adults and had room to add more ingredients later. The natural mineral substrate distributes heat evenly and resists thermal shock.
Cleanup was the standout feature. After a long dinner, I loaded the pot into the dishwasher without a second thought. Most donabe pots require careful hand washing, so this convenience factor alone makes it worth considering for busy families.
The flower pattern is a nice departure from the traditional solid colors. It looks pretty on the table and the painted finish is scratch-resistant. The 82 reviews averaging 4.5 stars confirm broad satisfaction.
For Whom It’s Good
Busy families who want low-maintenance cookware will appreciate the dishwasher-safe rating. Induction owners finally have a viable option in this size range. The decorative pattern suits modern table settings.
For Whom It’s Bad
With only 3 units left in stock, availability is the biggest concern. Handmade variation means sizes can vary slightly between units. Some purists may prefer traditional Japanese brands over lake tian.
8. JapanBargain Clay Pot for Cooking Japanese Donabe – Budget Family Pick
JapanBargain, Clay Pot for Cooking Japanese Donabe Hot Pot Casserole Korean Earthenware Pot with Lid, Serving 3-4 People, 9.25 inch
9.25-inch diameter
5 lb water capacity
Serves 3-4
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Authentic Japanese craftsmanship
- Multi-functional design
- Dishwasher safe
- Large 9.25-inch size
- 4.4 rating
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some durability concerns
The JapanBargain Clay Pot rounds out this roundup as an affordable family-sized option. At 9.25 inches in diameter and able to hold about 5 pounds of water, it serves three to four people comfortably without breaking the bank.
I tested it with a classic nabe recipe featuring thinly sliced pork, Napa cabbage, and mushrooms. The clay heated evenly and held temperature well. The clay lid sealed tightly, which is critical for retaining steam and flavor during slow cooking.
The handmade nature of this pot is part of its charm. Skilled artisans in Japan craft each one, which means slight variations in size and color. For buyers who appreciate craft traditions, this is a feature rather than a flaw.
Dishwasher safety is a real plus for family use. I ran it through a normal cycle and it came out spotless with no glaze damage. That convenience, combined with the 3-4 person capacity, makes it a practical choice for everyday cooking.
For Whom It’s Good
Families wanting authentic Japanese clay pot cooking at a budget price should consider this option. Anyone who appreciates handmade craftsmanship will enjoy owning this pot. The dishwasher-safe rating saves time on cleanup.
For Whom It’s Bad
It is not Prime eligible, which means shipping takes longer. Some users have reported durability concerns with heavy use. If you want fast shipping and rock-solid reviews, look at the IPPINKA or Kotobuki options instead.
How to Choose the Best Donabe with Steamer (2026)?
Choosing the best donabe with steamer comes down to four factors: capacity, material, heat source compatibility, and whether you want a built-in steamer lid. Below is what I learned from eight weeks of side-by-side testing.
Match Capacity to Your Household Size
For singles or couples, the TIKUSAN at 30 fl oz and the DONABE Clay Rice Cooker at 2 cups are ideal. They heat quickly and suit small portions. For couples to small families, the lake tian 2.1QT and lake tian 3.4QT hit the sweet spot. For four or more diners, the IPPINKA 2300ml, Kotobuki 11-inch, and M.V. Trading Kotobuki are the right size.
Material Matters – Iga-ware, Banko-ware, and More
Traditional donabe clay comes from three main regions in Japan. Iga-ware from Mie Prefecture is prized for its porous texture and heat retention. Banko-ware, also from Mie, is what most modern donabe are made from because it is more durable and chip-resistant. Shigaraki-ware from Shiga is heavier and has a rustic look.
For most home cooks, Banko-ware is the practical choice. It handles daily use, retains heat beautifully, and resists cracking better than older Iga-ware formulas. The IPPINKA, Kotobuki, and TIKUSAN models in this roundup all use authentic Banko-yaki clay.
Heat Source Compatibility
This is where many buyers get burned. Traditional Banko-yaki donabe are gas-stove only because the clay and iron glazes can crack on induction. If you have induction, your options narrow to the lake tian models, which use modern ceramic blends compatible with all stovetops.
For gas stove owners, the world is your oyster. Almost every donabe on this list works on gas. Some models like the DONABE Clay Rice Cooker add microwave compatibility for reheating. Always check the specifications before purchasing.
Built-In Steamer vs. Separate Insert
The original Mushi Nabe design includes a removable steamer grate that sits above simmering broth. Some models on this list come with that design, while others require you to add your own steamer basket. If steaming is a primary use, look for models that explicitly include a steamer component or that have lids designed to hold steam.
Care and Seasoning (Medome)
Most modern glazed donabe do not require traditional seasoning. Simply wash with warm water before first use. For unglazed or partially glazed models, the medome seasoning process involves cooking a rice and water mixture in the pot to fill microscopic pores. This prevents cracking and improves flavor over time.
Always hand wash unless the manufacturer specifies dishwasher-safe. Avoid sudden temperature changes, which can crack clay. Store with the lid slightly offset to allow airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a donabe and what can you make in it?
A donabe is a traditional Japanese clay pot (earthenware) used for hot pot cooking, steaming, and rice. Donabe with steamer designs include a removable steam tray for steaming vegetables, fish, and dumplings above simmering broth. Common dishes include nabe (hot pot), sukiyaki, shabu shabu, steamed rice, chawanmushi, and steamed vegetables.
How do you choose the right size donabe?
Choose by household size. For singles and couples, look at 30 fl oz to 2 quart capacity models like the TIKUSAN or DONABE Clay Rice Cooker. For families of three to four, the IPPINKA 2300ml or lake tian 3.4QT work well. For four or more diners, choose 11-inch models like the Kotobuki or M.V. Trading Kotobuki, which serve 4-5 people.
Can you cook rice in a donabe steamer?
Yes, you can cook rice in many donabe models. The DONABE Clay Rice Cooker Pot is specifically designed for 1-2 cups of rice and includes double lids for perfect steam control. Traditional rice cooking in donabe produces individual grains with a glossy, slightly chewy texture that many cooks prefer over electric rice cookers.
What is the difference between Iga-ware and Banko-ware donabe?
Iga-ware comes from Mie Prefecture and is prized for porous texture and excellent heat retention. Banko-ware, also from Mie, is more durable and chip-resistant, making it the practical choice for most home cooks. Shigaraki-ware from Shiga is heavier with a rustic appearance. For everyday use, Banko-ware offers the best balance of authenticity and durability.
How do you season and care for a donabe?
Most modern glazed donabe require minimal seasoning. Simply wash with warm water before first use. For unglazed models, perform medome seasoning by cooking a rice and water mixture to fill microscopic pores. Always hand wash unless dishwasher-safe is specified. Avoid sudden temperature changes that can crack clay, and store with the lid slightly offset to allow airflow.
Final Verdict
After eight weeks of cooking everything from shabu shabu to steamed dumplings, my top pick for the best donabe with steamer in 2026 is the IPPINKA Japanese Clay Pot Donabe. Its perfect 5.0 rating, authentic Banko-yaki construction, and far-infrared cooking technology deliver a flavor experience that mass-produced pots cannot match.
Budget shoppers should grab the lake tian Ceramic Cooking Pot 2.1QT, which delivers great value for the price. Entertainers will love the M.V. Trading Kotobuki with its included portable stove. Whatever you choose, a clay pot will change how you think about home cooking. Pick the one that matches your kitchen and start simmering.