Types of Chef’s Knives
There are various types of chef’s knives that can be used - either by professional chefs or in the kitchen at home.
The most popular of these is actually widely known as a chef’s knife. This knife is used for many tasks around the kitchen and is probably the most versatile of knives. For example, you could use this knife for general slicing, dicing and chopping. Sizes of knives vary here as well - some chef’s knives are 6” long with the biggest usually used coming in at 12”.
There are times - when you use chef’s knives - when you will need a knife that is more suited to a particular job in the kitchen. So, for example, you could use a:
- Paring knife - these knives are smaller than chef’s knives but are just as versatile. They are generally used for preparing vegetables and fruit.
- Serrated knives - a chef’s knife will generally have a smooth blade but sometimes a serrated blade will be better for you (for example if you are cutting bread or vegetables with a smooth skin). Serrated knives come in all shapes and sizes.
- Carving knives - as their name suggests these knives are used for carving (usually meat).
- Boning knives - these knives are used by chefs to take the meat in a roast/poultry off the bones.
- Filleting knife - if you need to fillet something (such as a fish) then you may find a filleting knife useful. This knife has a narrow blade which is generally flexible.
- Cleavers - cleavers are used for the big jobs in the kitchen. Their wide axe-like blade makes them useful for chopping big items and cutting through bones.