Home > Learning Center > Chef knife

Chef knife

Using a chef knife is a little more complicated than it looks. It takes skill and training in order to be able to use one effectively. By following the tips listed below, you should get a good basic understanding about what using these knives entails.

Of course, there is still going to be a lot of training ahead of you before you can completely know how to use a chef knife, but this information should help you understand if it is something you really want to learn to use.

• Visit a fine kitchenware store – A fine chef must have a fine chef knife. Infortunately, you will not typically find these knives at your local big box retailer. You should seek out specialty stores that specialize in kitchen utensils and dishes. Find the one knife that feels good in your hands.

• Upon purchasing the chef knife and returning home with it, you should prepare to make your first cut with your new knife. To do so, grab the knife with your dominant hand with all fingers on the handle of the knife.

• Next, curl the fingers on your other hand under the first knuckle. Keep your thumb and little finger behind all the other fingers. This is a good position for stabilization when using the knife.

• Next, carefully place the blade of the knife up against the curled fingers of your opposite hand and begin to rock the chef knife back and forth to chop the food. It is important that you pay extra close attention to what you are doing. You cannot afford to let anything distract you or you may finish with less fingers than you started with.

• Pay special attention to the part of the blade you are using to do the cutting. The blade of the chef knife should be in contact with the cutting surface at all times. Remember to cut with the rear end of the blade instead of the tip. This is safer.