Regardless of the type of knife you are using the method of holding a knife is the same. It is known as a ‘pinch grip’ and is the safest, most efficient and most effective way to use a knife.
1
To hold the knife, grip it by placing your thumb and forefinger around the base of the blade in a pinching position
2
Wrap the other 3 fingers around the handle of the knife
3
To cut, centre the knife in the middle of the chopping board and begin to create a rocking motion, up and over, using the whole length of the knife
4
Use your other hand to make a claw shape, you will use this as a guide for your knife
5
Place the claw over the food you wish to cut, being sure to keep your fingertips tucked underneath away from the blade
6
When cutting the food, rather than pushing it toward the knife, run you fingers over it, using your thumb for support
7
Sit the knife alongside your fingers and begin to slice all the way through the food, using the whole length of the knife
Get in touch
Please sign in or register to send a comment to Great British Chefs.