Japanese kitchen knives bring a special handmade touch to your kitchen. They are often given as gifts to symbolize the quality and care with which you prepare meals for your loved ones. The problem with buying Japanese kitchen knives, however, is that data about them is hard to find. So, we have put together some information to help you choose the right Japanese kitchen knife for you.
Also, if you want to buy Japanese kitchen knives in Tokyo, please refer to the “Kappabashi (= Kitchen City) buying guide”.
Types of Japanese kitchen knives
After evaluating Japanese and European knives, we came to the conclusion that European knives are more powerful. These knives are suitable for all kinds of powerful and fine work. However, Japanese knives have a special purpose. Here are some of the very different types of knives and the special purposes for which they can be used for a long time.
Gyuto or Japanese kitchen knife
A gyuto knife has similar characteristics to a western knife. It is a hybrid between a Western chef’s knife and a Japanese vegetable knife, which can be used for the same tasks as cutting meat or fish.
The French chef’s knife, preferred by the Japanese, has a straight edge and a curved tip. Knives of this shape are excellent for cooking almost any dish.
The contour of this knife increases its contact with the cutting board. This means it doesn’t need to be lifted higher, which makes for a more environmentally friendly and less tedious cut. The tip is small and aligned with the center of gravity, making it ideal for delicate and intricate work. The meat knife is sharp on all sides and comes in sizes from 8 to 12 inches. This knife is lightweight and does a great job on precise tasks like cutting soft squirrels and vegetables. However, it does not cut through large amounts of material or dense materials.
Conclusion
Any knife enthusiast will agree that Japanese knives are second to none in terms of quality, sharpness and durability. Thanks to their overhanging appearance, these knives are very practical. You will rarely find a Japanese knife that can be used for multiple purposes. The longevity of these knives is due to their practicality and ergonomics. It will definitely improve your cooking process and skill in the kitchen.
