The importance of good kitchen knives
One thing all good cooks and chefs want in their kitchen is a fantastic set of knives, and the know-how to wield them.
Knives range in price from inexpensive to jaw-dropping. Good kitchen knives will last for years, often a lifetime if they’re looked after, so buy the best you can afford. Quality is important.
How to choose
The first thing you’ll notice when buying knives is how many brands, styles and sizes are available. So how does a smart cook choose?
Many brands sell sets that generally include a medium and a large chef’s knife and a vegetable (paring) knife. Team them with a sharpening steel the right length for your knives. Keeping knives sharp is hugely important, because a blunt knife is far more dangerous than a sharp one.
Some brands sell knives individually, so you can build your own custom set. If you’re new to cooking, a small set from a recognised brand that will stand the test of time is the best way to begin; you can add more specialised knives later if the need arises. For experienced cooks, I recommend a set from the same brand that suits your hand. Personally, I like light, fine-edged knives; they’re what work for me. Once you buy good knives, you’ll never look back.
Top 5 tips on how to use your knives
- Keep it sharp. Always make sure your knife is sharp. Blunt knives slip and are uber dangerous.
- Hold the handle with your dominant hand.
- Use a pinch grip. Pinch the blade just in front of the bolster between your thumb and the side of your bent index finger, and wrap your other fingers around the handle. This gives you much more control.
- Make a claw. Hold the food with your other hand, curling your fingertips under so your knuckles face the blade. Rest the side of the blade against your knuckles as a guide while you cut down into the food.
- Tuck your thumb. Keep your thumb tucked behind your fingers, and move your clawed hand backwards to position the next cut. Go slowly; speed comes with time, and it’s best to keep all your fingers in the beginning!
For workplaces, you can complete my safe knife skills course here.
For videos on using knives like a pro, plus fast, easy cooking with time-saving tips for wellbeing, self-coaching and much more, check out my online 12-week programs here.
If you’re a hospitality business, please contact me about your due diligence here.
Happy chopping! Culinary regards, Cass x
