What knife is best for cutting cheese?

When it comes to serving cheese, selecting the right knife to cut it is as important as choosing the right cheese. A good cheese knife enables you to cut through different textures of cheese with ease, avoiding unnecessary pressure on the cheese that could potentially damage it. However, with an overwhelming variety of cheese knives available in the market, choosing the right one may seem like a daunting task. Here is a guide to selecting the best knife for cutting cheese:

What to look for in a cheese knife

Before purchasing a cheese knife, you should be aware of its basic structure. Cheese knives come in two general styles; the blade style and the fork style. Within these styles, there are different types of blades with varying shapes and sizes. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a cheese knife:

1. The type of cheese

Different cheese types require different blades for the most efficient and effective cutting. For example, a soft cheese requires a thinner blade that can cut through it easily without crushing the structure. On the other hand, a hard cheese needs a thicker and heavier blade that can cut through it without bending.

2. The handle

The handle of the knife is another essential factor to consider. A good cheese knife should have a comfortable grip that makes it easy to hold and use. Additionally, it should be made of non-slip materials to prevent accidents while cutting.

3. The blade shape

The blade shape determines the type of cheese it can cut. For example, a blade with a forked tip is useful for serving soft cheese, while a hooked blade is suitable for cutting hard cheese. Flat blades, on the other hand, are suitable for slicing semi-hard cheese.

4. The size of the knife

The size of the knife should correspond to the size of the cheese you intend to cut. For instance, a small knife may be suitable for soft cheese, while a larger one is best for hard cheese.

5. The quality of the knife

Like other kitchen utensils, the quality of a cheese knife determines its durability and effectiveness. Look for a high-quality brand with a long-lasting blade material, such as stainless steel.

Types of cheese knives

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a cheese knife, here are the different types of cheese knives you are likely to encounter in the market:

1. Soft cheese knives

Soft cheese knives are sharp, thin, and have holes or slots on the blade to reduce friction while cutting. They are suitable for cutting soft cheese, such as brie, camembert, and goat cheese. The handle is usually made of wood or plastic.

2. Hard cheese knives

Hard cheese knives have thick, sharp blades that are capable of cutting through hard cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, or manchego. The blade usually has a forked tip that makes it easier to serve the cheese without it breaking. The handle is typically made of wood or metal.

3. Cheese cleavers

Cheese cleavers are large knives that resemble meat cleavers. They are suitable for cutting large blocks of cheese and are ideal for chefs or those who run a restaurant. However, they may not be practical for home use, as they are bulky and may not fit in a regular knife block.

4. Cheese planes

Cheese planes are handheld devices that resemble vegetable peelers. They are suitable for slicing thinly cut cheese, such as parmesan or pecorino. They have a flat or curved blade that has a sharp edge for slicing.

5. Cheese wire cutters

Cheese wire cutters are cheese knives that have a thin wire instead of a blade. They are useful for cutting soft cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, as the wire prevents the cheese from sticking to the blade.

Conclusion

Choosing the best knife for cutting cheese comes down to the type of cheese you want to serve. When shopping for a cheese knife, consider the blade size and shape, the quality of the knife, and the handle's comfort. Investing in a high-quality cheese knife will ensure that you serve your cheese perfectly sliced, making your guests happy and impressed.