Also available in the Summer Soba Set (with the 20 cm zaru) for €85 instead of €97.

The technique

Drain freshly rinsed cold noodles directly in the basket, placed on a plate: the water flows through the weave, requiring no additional accessories. The same method is used to rinse and dry vegetables after washing.

Why it's different

The diamond weave (ajiro) distributes the tension of the bamboo in two directions at once, making the basket more rigid than a simple weave while remaining flexible at the edges. The twisted rim, a specialized technique in itself, closes and reinforces the edge of the basket where the weave ends—a point that would otherwise be the first to wear out with use.

Why a zaru instead of a standard colander

When placed on a plate, it allows water to drain without the need for an extra bowl or colander, and it serves just as well for draining as it does for presenting food directly at the table, as zaru soba is traditionally eaten right out of the basket.

Why I chose it

"I love objects that naturally find their place in the kitchen. This zaru is one of them: simple, light, and versatile, it serves just as well for draining noodles as it does for preparing or presenting vegetables. I liked its obvious nature: no superfluous functions, just an object well-designed for a task one performs regularly."

Is it right for you?

You'll love it if

• you regularly cook Japanese noodles (soba, udon) or need to rinse vegetables
• you appreciate objects that can be used both in the kitchen and at the table
• you value the craft of hand-woven bamboo
• you are willing to provide simple but attentive care: air drying, no dishwasher

It's probably not for you if

• you are looking for a catch-all utensil for every type of draining (meat, fried food, etc.)
• you prefer an object you can put in the dishwasher without a second thought

Hand-woven bamboo, twisted rattan rim, available in 20 cm and 24 cm.

In practice

Available in two sizes: 20 cm and 24 cm in diameter. Rinse with clear water and allow to air dry, standing upright rather than flat, so that moisture does not stagnate between the strips. Avoid prolonged soaking and the dishwasher.

An object built to last

The hand-woven bamboo and twisted rim are designed to withstand frequent use, provided it receives simple care: rinsing and air drying. Made in Japan, this zaru is built to last far longer than a low-end plastic colander.