Knives

HISTORY AND INTRODUCTION

Knives are sharp-edged tools used for the purpose of cutting, peeling, chopping and slicing. Knives consists of two parts- Knife handle and Knife blade. Knives handles could be carved out of many materials including wood, plastic, iron and other metals. On the other hand. knives blades are made with many metals like steel, iron, stone etc. End of the blade is known as tang.

Knives are the oldest tools used by human beings. Knives have there existence from 2.5 million years ago. Unlike animals, human being was not born with sharp edged nails and tooth. Therefore the need to prevent themselves by all other species, human beings invented a self defending tool for themselves called knife. Today knives are used not only for self defense but its also used for numerous chopping, slicing, cutting purposes.

The latest materials used for manufacturing a sturdy and well balanced knives are ceramic zirconia and high carbon stainless steel. Usage of good material and proper care helps in resisting stains and rust on knives blades. Knives are available in different sizes and shapes, all for different usages. The material used on the knives depicts the durability of the knife viz if wood handle is covered with plastic layer then its easy to clean the knife. A carbon steel knives are highly economical, could be easily resharpened and durable then stainless steel knives. On the other hand stainless steel knives are rust resistant.

Types of knives

Chef's knives :-Chef's knives are also termed as French knives which are well known for there broad and tapers structure. Chef's knives are widely used tool by chef's and professional cooks. This are fine edge knives used by hotel industry for all the purpose connected to cutting, slicing and chopping fruits and vegetables. It usually carries the blade of 8 inches to 12 inches long.
Slicing knives:-This kind of knives are widely used by chefs and many household women to cut and slice bread pieces, meat, beef, chicken, fish and vegetables for cooking and roasting the food. Slice knives are largely used to cut cleanly through cooked or raw meat or chicken with its long and sharp blades.
Serrated knives:- Serrated knives are often used for slicing and chopping softer food material like bread , tomatoes, beans, fruits etc.
Short bladed knives:-These are also termed as utility knives used for peeling, cutting and removing core of the fruit and vegetables. Such knives are commonly used by house wives. It comprise of 5-6 inches longer blade.
Carving Knives (Slicer):-These kind of knives are generally used for carving large roasts, fish and turkey with its long and flexible blade. Its blade is generally 10 to 14 inches in length.
Bread knives:-These kind of knives are used in bakery shops for cutting soft and hard breads and to cut loaves of crusty bread. Its blade is generally 8 to 10 inches long.
Paring Knives:-These kind of knives are largely used for trimming and dicing vegetables and fruits. The blade size may fall between 3 to 4 inches.