If you are looking for the right culinary knives to add to your kitchen tools, then look no further. Japanese knives have been known to be among the best knives when it comes to creating the finest cuisines. Passionate chefs all around the world have in ages been using these knives and they never disappoint. But do you know why? Well, stick around to learn a thing or two. Here’s what you should know about Japanese knives.
It’s All About Choosing The Right Japanese Knife
Knives come in all shapes and sizes. And this is among the factors that make knives an essential tool in the kitchen. But here is the thing, knives are not only an essential tool in the kitchen. If you were to ask a camper what’s their most essential camping equipment, they’ll tell you for a fact that the knife is at the top of their packing list.
Choosing the right knife will help to make your work easier and Japanese knives have been known for that. There are a lot of factors that you’ll need to consider when choosing the right Japanese knife. This guide from the guys over at https://knivesadvisor.com/ explains all the nitty gritties involved. But to break it down for you, below are all the important considerations you need to factor in when choosing a Japanese knife.
- Purpose – It all depends on how you intend to use the knife because not all Japanese knives are made equal or with the intent to be used in the kitchen. Some Japanese knives are specifically designed to be used in the outdoors.
- Check the handle – Now, in terms of balance, the handle on a Japanese knife plays a crucial role in not only ensuring comfort but also ease of use.
- Blade – For campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and chefs, it will be of utmost importance that before choosing any Japanese knife, you consider the blade. Some knives will come double-edged, serrated, while others will be single-edged.
The History Of Japanese Knives
There’s not choosing a Japanese knife without knowing its history. Japanese knives have come from a long line of Japanese craftsmanship. Japan has always been known for making the finest swords and knives ever since. Modern Japanese kitchen knives are almost fashioned by the same techniques that were used when making samurai swords (katana), a process that was developed almost 1000 years ago. There’s a lot of history behind the making of Japanese knives. Interestingly, the swords and knives made back in the day were instrumental in Japanese history; both in wars and in their traditions.
The Forging Process
Japanese knives are carefully forged in traditional processes that ensure their strength, durability, and versatility. Stainless steel knives have to undergo a heating process to make them stronger. The forging process also helps to make the blade hold its edge longer than the stamped blade types. Meanwhile, no need to worry about frequent japanese knife sharpening because you can order genuine japanese knives online.
Japanese Knives Vs ‘Other Knives’
Japanese knives are known to be durable compared to other manufactured knives (stamped knives). These are knives you’ll want for almost all your uses as they are corrosion resistant, easy to maintain, and easy to sharpen. The same cannot be said about western knives. They may be appealing but do not have the qualities Japanese knives possess.
Material Of Construction
Japanese knives are specially and traditionally made with Hagane. This is a type of carbon steel that’s known to be stronger and its qualities help to make Japanese knives durable and rust-resistant. But it just doesn’t end there, the blades are forged in layers of brittle carbon and soft iron steel in the outer layers of the blade. It’s this combination that results in knives that are sharper than your ordinary knives. Before choosing a Japanese knife, check to see that it’s made of steel and you might also want to ask your vendor about the knife’s forging process.
Types Of Japanese Blades
As earlier mentioned, Japanese knives come in all shapes and sizes. There are different types of Japanese knives out there and all with their specific uses. You must familiarize yourself with the varieties of Japanese knives before making the final purchase decision. Below are the types of Japanese knives that exist today. They include:
- Sashimi knife
- Usuba knife
- Santoku knife
- Nakiri knife
- Deba bocho knife
- Yanagiba bocho knife
- Takohiki bocho knife
The above are facts about Japanese knives and everything else in between. If you are a chef or are an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll want to ensure that you have the right knife to suit your specific needs. Choosing a knife is easier said than done but you’ll never go wrong with a Japanese knife.