Cheese Knife 101: A Guide to Cheese Knives

Cheese Knife 101: A Guide to Cheese Knives

Cheese is one of the most versatile foods. It can be eaten alone, on crackers, with wine, and it can be cooked with many different dishes. However, when it comes to serving cheese at a party or event, it's important to have the right tools on hand, including the right cheese knives. Here's a guide to cheese knives to help you choose which ones you need to add to your collection.

The Cheese Knife Types

There are many types of cheese knives, each with its own specific purpose. It's important to have a variety of knives on hand to handle different types of cheese. Here are some of the most common cheese knives:

1. Soft Cheese Knife - The soft cheese knife typically has a long, thin blade that is designed to cut through soft cheeses like brie, as well as semi-soft cheeses like gouda.

2. Hard Cheese Knife - The hard cheese knife is usually much shorter and has a stronger blade that can easily slice through hard, aged cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan.

3. Cheese Plane - A cheese plane is a flat blade that is used to slice thin, even pieces of cheese.

4. Cheese Fork - A cheese fork is essential when serving crumbly cheeses, like feta. It has a pointed end that allows you to spear cheese pieces without them crumbling.

5. Cheese Spreader - A cheese spreader has a short, wide blade that is perfect for spreading soft cheeses like cream cheese, boursin and goat cheese on crackers.

The Cheese Knife Materials

Cheese knives can be made from various materials, including stainless steel, wood and plastic. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common materials used to make cheese knives:

1. Stainless Steel - Stainless steel cheese knives are durable, easy to clean, and resist rust and corrosion. They are also lightweight and easy to handle.

2. Wood - Wooden cheese knives have an attractive, rustic appearance, and are known for their durability. They are also gentle on the cheese, so you don't have to worry about chipping or breaking any pieces.

3. Plastic - Plastic cheese knives are lightweight, easy to clean, and can come in many different colors. However, they may not be as durable as stainless steel or wood.

The Cheese Knife Buying Tips

When looking to buy cheese knives, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you select the best knives for your needs:

1. Consider the type of cheese you'll be serving. Different cheeses require different knives, so make sure you have the right tools on hand.

2. Look for quality materials. Good quality stainless steel or wood is important for durability and longevity.

3. Consider the size and shape of the blade. Make sure it fits the cheese you're cutting so that you can get the right size slices.

4. Check for grip and handle. The knife should be comfortable to hold, easy to use, and not slip in your hands.

5. Storage and maintenance. Consider the size and shape of the knives for easy storage, and look for knives that are easy to clean and take care of.

In Summary

Cheese knives are an essential tool for any cheese lover. Having the right knives on hand can make any cheese plate or party spread look and taste amazing. With the above guide, you can choose the right knives for your collection, depending on the types of cheeses you want to serve. Remember, a good cheese knife can be the difference between enjoying your cheese and hacking away at it with a regular old kitchen knife. Happy cheesing!