Knives are the most essential item in a chef’s toolkit and may be used for almost any food preparation operation, from slicing vegetables and butchering a piece of meat to cracking open an oyster and slicing bread. But different types of kitchen knives are made for different things. This article discusses the different types of kitchen knives and their applications so you can choose the one that best suits your requirements.
Here are the descriptions of the common types of kitchen knives:
1. Chef’s knife: a large, versatile knife used for chopping, mincing, and slicing
2. Paring knife: a small, pointed knife used for peeling, trimming, and intricate work
3. Santoku knife: a Japanese all-purpose knife similar to a Chef’s knife
4. Bread knife: a serrated knife used for slicing bread without crushing it
5. Utility knife: a medium-sized knife for general tasks such as cutting fruits, vegetables and meats
6. Boning knife: a thin, flexible knife used for removing bones from meat and poultry
7. Fillet knife: a thin, flexible knife used for filleting fish
8. Cleaver: a heavy knife used for chopping bones and tough ingredients
9. Tomato knife: a short, serrated knife used for slicing tomatoes and other delicate produce
10. Steak knife: a sharp knife for cutting steak at the table.
How to sharpen kitchen knives?
Here is a simple tutorial on how to sharpen kitchen knives:
Materials:
* Sharpening stone or honing rod
* Oil or water (if using a sharpening stone)
* Gloves or a towel (for protection)
* Angle guide (optional)
Instructions:
1. Secure your sharpening stone or honing rod to a stable surface or use a honing guide.
2. If you are using a sharpening stone, apply a small amount of oil or water to the stone to lubricate it.
3. Hold the knife at a 20-degree angle to the stone or honing rod.
4. Starting at the heel of the knife, use a back-and-forth motion to sharpen the knife. Use moderate pressure, but be careful not to apply too much pressure and damage the blade.
5. Move the knife down the stone or rod, working on small sections of the blade at a time.
6. Repeat the process on the other side of the blade, making sure to keep the angle consistent.
7. Once you have finished sharpening the knife, use a honing rod to realign the blade’s edge.
8. Wipe the blade clean and store it safely.
Note: Sharpening is different than honing, honing is maintaining the edge while sharpening is restoring the edge. Honing should be done frequently while sharpening should be done less frequently. Also, it’s a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific sharpening tool. Also, If you are not comfortable using a sharpening stone or honing rod, you can consider using an electric knife sharpener or take your knives to a professional for sharpening.
How to dispose of kitchen knives?
Here are some guidelines on how to dispose of kitchen knives safely:
1. Take the knife to a professional for sharpening or repair before disposing of it. A worn-out or damaged knife can be dangerous and should not be used.
2. If the knife is still in good condition, consider donating it to a local shelter or organization in need.
3. If the knife is no longer usable or in good condition, it should be disposed of properly. Never throw a knife in the regular trash or recycling as it can be dangerous for waste management workers and anyone who comes in contact with it later.
4. Some cities have special recycling programs for knives, scissors, and other sharp objects. Check with your local waste management department to see if such a program exists in your area.
5. If your city does not have a specific program for knives, you can put them in a sharps container or wrap them in heavy-duty packing tape or duct tape to secure the blade before disposing of them.
6. Alternatively, you can take them to a metal recycling facility, but make sure to call ahead and ask if they accept knives and how they want them delivered.
7. Always handle knives with care and never leave them where children or untrained people can reach them.
Keep in mind that knives are not the only sharp objects that need to be disposed of properly. Scissors, razors, needles, and other sharp items should also be handled with care and disposed of properly.
Where to buy kitchen knives?
There are many places where you can buy kitchen knives, including:
1. Specialty kitchen stores: These stores often carry a wide selection of knives from various brands and are staffed by knowledgeable employees who can help you choose the right knife for your needs.
2. Department stores: Many department stores carry a selection of kitchen knives, but the selection may be more limited than at a specialty store.
3. Online retailers: Many online retailers sell kitchen knives, such as Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, Sur la Table, and others. Shopping online can provide a wider selection and often better prices than in-store shopping.
4. Directly from manufacturers: Many knife manufacturers sell their products directly to consumers through their websites.
5. Second-hand markets: You can also find kitchen knives in second-hand markets such as garage sales, thrift stores, and online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist. Keep in mind that purchasing knives from these sources carries the risk of buying knives that are damaged, worn, or not suitable for your needs.
It’s a good idea to research different brands and models before making a purchase, read reviews and compare prices, and consider your budget and needs when buying a kitchen knife.
