Did you know that in Japan, during the Edo era, it was illegal to eat four-legged animals? Therefore, the Japanese diet centered around fish, rice, and vegetables. It was during this time, in the 17th century, the nakiri knife was born. It’s a design so good it hasn’t been changed in 400 years! The knife looks like a cute little cleaver but is in fact used delicately and precisely to slice fish, dice onions, and slice vegetables. It is my favorite knife for prep work and is guaranteed to be your new favorite tool for quick chopping and easy prep. So what is a Nakiri knife? Why do I need one in my life? Is this the knife everyone will be asking for as an amazing holiday gift? I’m glad you asked.
A nakiri knife is a small, straight-edged, sharp knife that is perfect for slicing vegetables. Its thin blade makes it easy to precision cut even the smallest vegetables. Unlike a chef's knife, which is designed for chopping and slicing meat, a nakiri knife is specifically designed for slicing vegetables. So, if you are looking for a knife that can help you slice vegetables quickly and easily, and let’s be honest most meals involve a lot of prep work, then a nakiri knife is the perfect option for you!
Nakiri vs. Chef
So what’s the difference between the Nakiri and Chef knife?
The main difference is in the blade. A Nakiri’s straight-edged blade will sit flat on the cutting board, while the blade of a chef knife is curved to allow for the rocking motion while cutting. The flatness of the Nakiri’s blade means you can cut all the way through to the cutting board, without the rocking motion. The Nakiri also has a thinner blade, so while it shouldn’t be used for tougher cuts, like butchering meat or cutting through thick vegetables, it’s the perfect knife for slicing thin pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables. The squared-off tip is another major design difference, as it limits the length of the knife. Most Nakiris are just over six inches, which gives the user more control making it easier to get into tight spaces and control the knife’s movements. Chef knives, on the other hand, are longer and wider than nakiri knives, making them better for general chopping.
Your New Favorite Knife
Seriously!
Unlike a chef's knife, which is designed for chopping and slicing meat, a nakiri knife is specifically designed for slicing vegetables. So, if you are looking for a knife that can help you slice vegetables quickly and easily, then a nakiri knife is the perfect option for you. They’re also great for delicate tasks like slicing ginger or garlic.
When it comes to knives, there are many different options to choose from. But, if you want a knife that is versatile and can do precision work, then you need a nakiri knife in your kitchen.