WHAT’S IN A KNIFE SET: WHY KNIVES HAVE DIFFERENT SHAPES

Appearance

• 8" size with a flat blade and a straight edge
• Wide heel that curves to a fine tip

Purpose

• Chopping, mincing and dicing vegetables, fruits, and herbs
• Versatile blade can be rolled back and forth
• Broad heel can perform heavy-duty cutting (like potatoes)

Slicer Knife

Appearance

• 8" long, slim knife that tapers to a sharp point
• Narrow width allows for more precision

Purpose

• Cutting poultry, pork, lamb, and beef into thin slices
• Great for cutting larger fruit and vegetables (like melons) and cakes

Bread Knife

Appearance

• 8" size with an even blade and a sharp, serrated edge

Purpose

• Cuts softer items like bread, bagels, and bread rolls
• Grooved edge cuts without crushing; keeps items intact
• Also great for slicing cakes, melons, and tomatoes

Utility Knife

Appearance

• 5" size that is smaller than a chef knife, but larger than a paring knife
• Sharp tip tapers to the spine to allow for intricate work

Purpose

• Chopping smaller foods and vegetables (like shallots)
• Similar to a chef knife; allows precision with smaller items

Paring Knife

Appearance

• 3.5" size with a short, even blade and a pointed tip

Purpose

• Basic tasks like cutting, chopping, slicing, peeling, mincing, and removing seeds
• Lightweight and easy handling allows for delicate work
• Great versatility, durable, and maneuverable

Sharpener

Appearance

• Long, metal rod with a handle at one end

Purpose

• Used to correct a blade's edge before and after use
• Alignment makes knives more effective

Scissors

Appearance

• Strong blades and a big handle to accommodate more fingers

Purpose

• Stronger cutting force can easily cut through tough ingredients
• Can cut herbs off vines, open up packaging, and cut meat into bite-sized chunks