Knives are commonly referred to as a cook’s hand extensions. With these valuable tools chopping the crunchiest of veggies gracefully for various dishes, it is essential to choose a nice and durable set that can serve a wide range of cutting purposes and is also handy to use. There are a variety of knives with many compositions for different uses. These come in sets with many sizes and edges for an all-in-one stand to go, regardless of what knife you need. Without the right guide, you might choose a set with unnecessary knives that stay locked up on your shelf for ages. Before choosing the right kitchen knife set with block, let’s look at some key points to know.
Classification of sets
Number of pieces
Knife sets come anywhere between three and 20 pieces. Depending on the types of knives you’re looking for and the type of dishes you usually cook, you can narrow it down to the number that would be the most efficient for you. A simple set would be sufficient if you usually cook veggies and don’t have much use for a second knife.
Style
These knife sets usually come in two styles, European and Japanese. The European ones are generally thicker and heavier and have a curved blade for a rocking cutting style. The Japanese-style knives are lighter and have a straight and thin blade for precision. Depending on what dishes you cook, you could choose the right style set for your kitchen.
What to take into account before you shop for knife sets
Essentials
People generally use a chef’s knife, an ordinary knife that cuts through everything: a classic blade and a sharp edge. If you only cook regular dishes, you can choose a simple chef knife and bread knife for crusty bread edges. However, if you like experimenting and going out of the blue, you could also look for a pairing knife that helps in precision.
Sizes
While choosing a knife set, consider the sizes available in the range. While a shorter knife is easy to control and work your way with, Longer knives save time by helping you cut through a lot at once. Typically, the average is an 8-inch knife, the most common size between a short and a long knife, ideal for both uses.
Terminology
Knowing the terminology standard knives use before getting into a set is essential. Forged knives are usually expensive due to the work and effort to solidify the molten material and design it to the desired shape. Stamped knives, however, are made from machines and are stamped through with uniform thickness other than the cutting edge.
Composition
According to the manufacturer, typical knives use a combination of stainless and carbon steel in different quantities. The use of stainless steel prevents corrosion of the knives and keeps them looking shiny, while carbon steel helps in a better edge. Ensure your knife is a good blend of these two metals for the best benefits.
Handle
The handle is the central part of the knife that you’re in direct contact with. It is essential to look for a comfortable handle that you can drape around with ease and isn’t too stiff on your hands. Ensure that you’re fully in control of the knife with the handle, and the grip is perfect for your hands.
Considering the above points, choosing the correct knife set should be a piece of cake! Please look at your favorite knife sets and ensure they meet the above requirements for a comfortable and long-lasting experience.
