One of the most exciting (and daunting) parts of starting out as a chef is purchasing your first knives. It’s important to have a few essential knives in your kitchen arsenal however, when you’re starting out it can be tempting to buy more than you need. So, we asked our Executive Chef Andy Hearnden which three knives he would recommend for beginner chefs. Here they are:
Chef’s Knife
A Chef’s Knife is a staple in every kitchen because it’s versatile and basically, an all-rounder. It typically has a longer blade (20-25cm) with a curved edge making it useful for chopping, slicing, and dicing a wide variety of ingredients. Japanese and German blades are generally the most popular among chefs, and brands like Victorinox are reliable and affordable (not sponsored, we promise).
Serrated Paring Knife
A Paring Knife is a small, narrow-bladed knife (7-10cm) with a pointed tip. They’re perfect for cutting with precision and for moments when you require control and accuracy. For example, peeling, trimming, and slicing small fruits and vegetables, or even removing seeds. According to Andy, this knife is a must-have!
Bread Knife
We all know this one. A bread Knife has a long (20-25cm), serrated blade. While this beauty is obviously designed for slicing through bread without crushing or squishing it, it’s also useful for slicing delicate items with a hard exterior but soft interior, like tomatoes or cake. It might not be the most exciting knife however, investing in one will certainly make your life easier in the kitchen.
These three knives should cover most of your basic kitchen needs as a beginner chef. While it’s important to invest in good-quality knives that feel comfortable and balanced in your hand, Andy recommends not breaking the bank.
“You don’t need to spend too much on your first set of knives because in reality, they don’t last forever” Andy said.
And lastly, look after your knives. Never put them in the dishwasher and remember to keep them sharp and properly maintained. Neglected knives are dangerous and frustrating to use.
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