When you first start cooking, a good quality kitchen knife is your best friend. They have many different types, but for a beginner, there is only one most important knife in the kitchen or maybe two in some cases.
A good knife will cut short the time you spend in your kitchen. Although the knife you choose depends mainly on the cuisine you cook, this guide will help you make the best choice. We have put together all the things that you need to consider while choosing the most vital tool in your kitchen:
Different Types of Kitchen Knives
There are different types of knives that you need to know before purchasing them. We have listed down some of the famous kitchen knives according to their usage:
Essential Blades for Your Kitchen
Chef Knife
You will find dozens of knives in the market, but the chef knife is the most important knife in the kitchen that will perform most of your cutting tasks. It comes in various sizes, usually ranging from 6 to 12 inches. The size you choose depends upon the size of your hands.
The Chef knife is considered the king of your kitchen knife collection as it can be used to cut meat as well as chop vegetables. It can be either forged or stamped, but forged blades are better for durability and frequent use.
Utility Knife
A utility knife is also a must-have in your kitchen as it performs cutting tasks that are impossible with a chef knife. It has a narrow-width blade with a sharp tip, making this kitchen knife perfect for chopping thin slices.
Santoku Knife
A Santoku knife is a slightly modified version of a typical chef knife. It is specially designed for people who want a light blade with a small size.
A Santoku knife can be used in the same way as a chef’s knife. Its flat blade makes it less suitable for chopping herbs, but it can finely slice, dice, and mince other food materials.
Specialty Knives You Can Buy
Paring Knife
If there is one specialty knife you must have in your kitchen, it should be a paring knife. For all the fruits and greens lovers out there, this is another most important knife in the kitchen you must own.
It comes with a thin blade 3-4 inches wide with a pointed tip making it perfect for peeling fruits and veggies. Apart from this, you can also use this knife for cutting toppings for your drinks.
Boning Knife
A boning knife is a lifesaver for people who cook meat a lot. This kitchen knife is used for separating bone from meat. Like all other kitchen knives, boning knives come in different sizes, typically about 8 inches in length.
Cleaver Knife
Cleaver is another name for a butcher knife. It is the bulkiest knife you will find, considering its weight and shape. A cleaver knife has a broad blade with a thick spine, and it is ideal for chopping hard bones and other thick and thin food materials.
Bread Knife
A bread knife is a straight blade knife with wide teeth perfect for cutting cakes, bread, and sometimes meat. They are designed in a way that is suitable for cutting through bread without squishing it.
What to Look for When Choosing Kitchen Knives
They are several factors that need to be considered while choosing kitchen knives, but we have listed below some of the most important ones:
Knife Handle
If you cook frequently, then there is a better chance that you will be using the kitchen knife more often. Although wooden handles look good when washed continuously, they will lose grip, which shortens the knife’s durability. Therefore, choose a blade with high-grade plastic material.
Knife Tang
Tang is the blade sandwiched between the handle. A good knife has Tang equal to the size and shape of the handle. However, some latest knives have a slightly large handle, which is then adjusted according to the Tang size, increasing its durability.
Blade Material of Kitchen Knife
A good knife has a long-lasting blade material that is also rust-proof. Carbon and stainless steel are the materials used for the blade, but both have some drawbacks. Choose the knife made up of high-carbon stainless steel alloy, a combination of the two alloys.
Price of Kitchen Knife
The price of every knife differs depending on its material and size. Remember that you won’t buy knives daily; they are a long-term investment. An expensive knife might be heavy on your pockets, but it will be helpful in the long run.
