03/07/2025

LYFE THURSDAY | JULY 3, 2025

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Benefits of using claypot for cooking

A LTHOUGH many Malaysian households having the latest modern conveniences, one item that is always ubiquitous is the humble claypot. Earthenware can be found in almost every kitchen, regardless of class or ethnicity. Here are some of the reasons for the claypot’s o Get maximum tenderness, flavour Ű BY R.BALA

great food in claypots. Even the simplest of fares takes on added appeal when the lid is taken off the claypot. Having claypots in the kitchen also adds old-school charm into what can sometimes look like a sterile environment. It just hints at a serious chef at work. Slow-cooking vessel The claypot is ideal for slow cooking as its porous material allow for the even flow of heat and moisture. Unlike steel or metal containers, this allows meats to slow cook over a low fire for the most tender dish. It is also used as a casserole dish – place it in an oven for an exceptional pot roast. Consistent serving temperature Terracotta is a bad conductor of heat, but the advantage is the amount of heat it conducts is just about right to cook food without overheating or at high pressure. Hence, hot food remains hot and cold food remains cold longer. That is why some restaurants serve briyani in claypots even though they were not prepared in them – this allows the food to remain warm longer. Juicy goodness Many cooks swear by claypots because they retain moisture when their lids are properly closed, thus retaining greater flavour and aroma. Ask any claypot chicken rice fan and they will confirm that this is the gospel truth. If your kitchen still lacks a claypot, do the necessary and strengthen your culinary arsenal.

enduring popularity.

Eco-friendly option Given that the base material is environmentally-friendly, there is almost no eco-guilt when one accidently cracks a claypot. Completely bio-degradable unlike teflon-coated utensils, the claypot is a great way to flex your green warrior credentials, apart from your culinary skills. Aesthetically pleasing Give your dining table an instant touch of rustic when you serve up

Claypots are often used as serving dishes because they retain heat longer. – PICS FROM PEXELS

Claypots distribute heat evenly, making them ideal for slow-cooking.

Toshiba launches Malaysia’s biggest-capacity refrigerator TOSHIBA Sales & Services Sdn Bhd last week unveiled the NaturePure Series 820L refrigerator, certified by the Malaysia Book of Records as the biggest-capacity refrigerator in Malaysia.

appliance segments: 0 Refrigerators: 16.7% (ranked second) 0 Washing machines: 13.6% (ranked second) 0 Microwave ovens: 10.5% (ranked fifth) Toshiba’s market share continues to expand steadily across all product categories, driven by rising demand for smart, functional and energy efficient home solutions. This results reflect the brand’s continued strength in delivering lifestyle-enhancing solutions that resonate with Malaysian households. In the broader Asean region, it continues to deepen its market footprint, with Thailand maintaining strong performance and Japan, its home market, continuing to lead in brand dominance and customer loyalty. Looking ahead: Japandi-inspired product expansion Celebrating its 95th anniversary, Toshiba’s innovation roadmap includes the continued roll-out of its signature Japandi Series – a harmonious fusion of Japanese craftsmanship and Scandinavian design sensibilities. Following the debut of the first Japandi refrigerator in 2024, Toshiba will expand the concept to include dishwashers, water purifiers and other home appliances – bringing seamless design and intuitive functionality into modern Malaysian homes.

The NaturePure 820L refrigerator is Asean’s first four-door, side-by-side refrigerator with a capacity exceeding 820 litres, sufficient for two weeks’ food storage. Designed for multi-generational households, the appliance offers expansive and compartmentalised storage – ideal for organising everything from baby food and fresh produce to skincare items and frozen essentials. Powered by High-Capacity Technology, the NaturePure features super-thin insulation and component miniaturisation to maximise internal storage without increasing external size. Key features include: 0 PureAir sterilisation system Eliminates 99.99% of bacteria and 99% of odours through hourly active purification – ideal for families with infants or health-sensitive needs. 0 PureAir turbo mode Purifies three times faster than standard mode. Ideal for traditional or strong-smelling dishes. 0 Pure ICE 3-Level System Delivers hygienic, odourless ice with FDA-certified water systems and integrated sterilisation. 0 Magic 2 sizes ice maker

Yang (second from right) and Toshiba Lifestyle Asia Pacific regional president Zeal Jiang (right) showing Malaysia’s biggest-capacity refrigerator, certified by the Malaysia Book of Records.

Toshiba opened its first brand store in Kuala Lumpur in 2024. Under its 2025 – 2026 initiative, it will focus on introducing industry leadership products and suite products. It has also earmarked an investment of not less than RM20 million per year for branding and digital marketing. Sustained market leadership across core categories As of the first quarter of 2025, the company has achieved significant market share across its key home

today’s consumers,” said Toshiba Sales & Services managing director Steven Yang. The company is targeting a 25% year-on-year growth compared with 2024, driven by rising consumer demand for technologically advanced and aesthetically refined home appliances. Yang said it targets to open one flagship store and establishing 50 Shop-in-Shop outlets by the end of 2025. There are 14 brand stores currently operating nationwide since

Industry-first dual-mode ice maker producing cubed and half-cubed ice, up to 2kg in 95 minutes. 0 Superior cooling with R290 refrigerant Offers 30% faster cooling while using eco-friendly refrigerants for reduced

environmental impact. Expanding in Malaysia

“In 2025, Toshiba continues to chart strong growth by expanding our diversified product portfolio to reflect the evolving needs and values of