Using knives in the kitchen. Improve your culinary skills

  The world of kitchen knives is diverse, each of them has its own purpose. Let's look at some of the most commonly used knives: 

Chef's knife 

  Often considered the workhorse of the kitchen, the chef's knife has a versatile design that is suitable for a variety of tasks. Its wide, sturdy blade makes it easy to cut large pieces of meat, dice, mince and chop a variety of ingredients. 

Cutting knife 

  This small, nimble knife with a sharp, pointed blade is perfect for demanding tasks such as peeling and precision cutting. This is especially useful when working with small fruits, vegetables or side dishes. 

Santoku knife 

  Originating from Japan, the Santoku knife is famous for its exceptional cutting capabilities. Its shorter and wider blade combined with the Granton edge (a row of small hollow ovals on the side of the blade) prevents food from sticking, making it perfect for slicing thin slices. 

Serrated bread knife 

  As the name suggests, this knife has a serrated edge that effortlessly cuts through crusty bread without crushing it. It can also be used to cut delicate cakes and tarts. 

Boning knife 

  Designed with a thin, flexible blade, it excels at removing bones from poultry, meat and fish. Its maneuverability allows for precise boning, resulting in clean cuts and minimal waste. 

A useful knife 

  This versatile knife fills the gap between a chef's knife and a paring knife. With a medium-sized blade, it performs a variety of cutting tasks, including slicing sandwiches, slicing herbs, and slicing vegetables. 

  Now that we've explored the different types of knives, let's discuss why they are essential in the culinary world: 

Efficiency and accuracy 

  Properly maintained knives increase the efficiency of the kitchen. The sharp blade reduces the effort required to cut through the ingredients, saving time and energy. The precision of the perfectly balanced blade ensures consistent cuts, resulting in even cooking and professional-looking dishes. 

Universality 

  Each knife serves a specific purpose, allowing chefs to tackle a variety of culinary challenges. The right knife allows chefs to perform delicate tasks such as fish fillets, or tough jobs like breaking down a whole chicken. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple tools, simplifying the cooking process. 

Safety 

  A sharp knife is safer. Contrary to popular belief, dull blades are more likely to slip and cause accidents. On the other hand, a sharp blade ensures a controlled and stable cut, reducing the risk of injury. 

  Mastering the right knife skills is just as important as choosing the right knife. Here are some useful tips and tricks for using knives properly in the kitchen: 

Knives care 

  Sharpen and polish your knives regularly to maintain their cutting edge. Use a honing steel or whetstone to keep the blade in optimal condition. 

Cutting surfaces 

  Always use a wooden or plastic cutting board, as hard surfaces such as glass or marble can damage the blade. Make sure the cutting board is stable and safe to avoid accidents. 

Knives storage 

  Invest in a knife block, magnetic strip or blade guards to keep your knives safe. Do not throw them in a drawer where they can be damaged. 

Regular cleaning of knives 

  Clean knives by hand, preferably with a mild dishwashing detergent and warm water. Do not soak them for long periods of time as this can damage the handle material and damage the blade. 

The right knife for the job 

  Choose the right knife for the task at hand. A paring knife isn't good for breaking up a chicken, just like a chef's knife might not be great for slicing tomatoes. 

  In conclusion, the use and importance of knives in the kitchen cannot be overstated. The right knife combined with the right knife skills is the recipe for success in the culinary world. From easily slicing ingredients to increasing efficiency and safety, a well-made knife is an indispensable tool for any chef. So, sharpen your knives, improve your technique and let the art of precision cutting take your culinary creations to new heights.