What are the different cheese knives used for?

Cheese has always been an essential ingredient in the world of food. From appetizers to entrees, cheese has been used to enhance the taste buds of people everywhere. But with cheese comes a set of tools that are as significant as the cheese itself to create the perfect appetizer or dish. Cheese knives are one of those tools that every cheese connoisseur must-have. But do you know the different cheese knives used for? In this article, we will explain the different types of cheese knives and how to use them to create the perfect serving of cheese.

1. The Parmesan Knife

The Parmesan cheese knife is designed to cut hard Parm-Reg cheese. This cheese has an immensely tough and crumbly texture, which makes it hard to cut through. A Parmesan knife has a narrow and long blade with a sharp angle that makes it easy to cut through tough blocks of Parmesan cheese without crumbling it. To use a Parmesan knife, hold the cheese steady and carefully impale the blade into the block. Then, curl the blade at a sharp angle, and apply pressure downwards to snap off the piece of cheese.

2. The Cheese Plane

The cheese plane is a versatile cheese tool that is used to shave thin slices of cheese. It is especially useful for soft cheeses like cheddar or Swiss. The cheese plane has a flat blade, and the user can vary the thickness of the slice by adjusting the angle of the blade. To use a cheese plane, hold the cheese steady, angle the blade downwards, and run it over the cheese while applying a little pressure. The desired thickness of the slice will come off easily.

3. The Soft Cheese Knife

The soft cheese knife is a broad and short-bladed knife that is used to cut soft cheese like brie or Camembert. The knife has a sharp point and round end that makes it perfect for spreading soft cheese on crackers or bread. The broad blade also prevents the cheese from sticking to the knife. To use a soft cheese knife, start at the edge of the cheese wheel and slice towards the center. Then, turn the knife ninety degrees and repeat the process.

4. The Cheese Fork

The cheese fork is a multi-purpose cheese tool that is used to hold down cheese while cutting or shaving it. It has two prongs at the end of the handle that hold down the cheese block, making it easier to cut. To use a cheese fork, impale the cheese block with the prongs and hold it steady. Then, cut the cheese with another knife or cheese slicer.

5. The Hard Cheese Knife

The hard cheese knife, also known as a chisel, is used to break hard cheeses like Gouda or cheddar. It has a thick rectangular blade that makes it easy to break off chunks of cheese. To use a hard cheese knife, angle the blade downwards and impale it into the cheese block. Then, push down with the knife while also pulling back towards the user. Continue to cut through the block this way until the desired size of the chunk is reached.

In conclusion, cheese knives are an essential tool for every cheese lover. With each type of knife having its specialty, it is no wonder that cheese knives have become an imperative tool in cooking and serving the perfect plate of cheese. By understanding the different cheese knives and their uses, anyone can serve a delicious cheese appetizer or entree. So, invest in a set of quality cheese knives, and take your love for cheese to the next level.