Cheese, in its many forms and flavors, is a delight to many. But how do we cut cheese to truly appreciate it? Having the right tools is essential. Cheese knives are designed to handle the unique textures and consistencies of different cheeses like brie to manchego, ensuring clean cuts and an enhanced tasting experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 cheese knives that every cheese lover should have in their kitchen arsenal.
1. Cheese Cleaver
Best For: Hard and Semi-Hard Cheeses (e.g., Cheddar, Gouda)
Description: The cheese cleaver is a small, sturdy knife with a wide blade. Its heft and sharp edge make it perfect for cutting through hard and semi-hard cheeses without crumbling them.
Features:
– Wide Blade: Provides leverage and stability when cutting.
– Sharp Edge: Ensures clean, precise cuts through dense cheeses.
– Comfortable Handle: Offers a firm grip for controlled slicing.
One Board Gal’s Usage Tip: Use a firm downward motion to slice through the cheese, letting the weight of the cleaver do most of the work.
2. Cheese Plane
Best For: Semi-Hard to Hard Cheeses (e.g., Swiss, Parmesan)
Description: The cheese plane is designed to shave thin, uniform slices from blocks of cheese. It resembles a small spatula with a sharp slit and is ideal for cheeses that are firm yet not too crumbly.
Features:
– Flat Blade with Slit: Creates thin, even slices perfect for sandwiches or cheese platters.
– Handle: Angled for comfortable, easy slicing.
One Board Gal’s Usage Tip: Hold the cheese steady and slide the plane across the surface to create perfect slices. This tool is excellent for creating decorative cheese boards.
3. Soft Cheese Knife
Best For: Soft and Semi-Soft Cheeses (e.g., Brie, Camembert)
Description: The soft cheese knife has a thin, often perforated blade that prevents soft, sticky cheeses from adhering to it. This ensures smooth, clean cuts.
Features:
– Perforated Blade: Reduces friction and sticking.
– Sharp Edge: Gently saws through soft cheeses without crushing them.
– Forked Tip: Handy for picking up and serving slices.
One Board Gal’s Usage Tip: Use a gentle sawing motion to cut through soft cheeses, allowing the perforations to minimize sticking and maintain the cheese’s shape.
4. Cheese Spreader
Best For: Very Soft Cheeses and Spreads (e.g., Cream Cheese, Chevre)
Description: The cheese spreader is a small, flat knife with a rounded edge, perfect for spreading soft cheeses on bread or crackers.
Features:
– Rounded Blade: Ideal for scooping and spreading.
– Short Handle: Provides precision and control.
One Board Gal’s Usage Tip: Scoop a portion of soft cheese and spread it smoothly over your bread or crackers for a delightful snack or appetizer.
5. Parmesan Knife (Almond Knife)
Best For: Very Hard Cheeses (e.g., Parmesan, Pecorino)
Description: This short, stubby knife is designed to break off chunks of very hard cheeses. Its pointed tip and robust build make it perfect for prying and cracking.
Features:
– Pointed Tip: Penetrates hard cheese easily.
– Sturdy Blade: Withstands the pressure needed to break cheese into chunks.
One Board Gal’s Usage Tip: Insert the tip of the knife into the cheese and twist to break off small, bite-sized pieces. This method preserves the cheese’s natural, crumbly texture.
Conclusion
Having the right cheese knives can make a world of difference in your cheese-tasting experience. Each knife is designed to handle specific types of cheese, ensuring you get the perfect slice or spread every time. Whether you’re hosting a gourmet cheese and wine evening or simply indulging in a cheese snack, these top 5 cheese knives will elevate your cheese game to new heights. So equip your kitchen with these essential tools and savor every bite of your favorite cheeses like never before.
Food stylist & founder of One Board Gal. Known for creative food tips and simple cheese board inspiration. I am dedicated to helping you bring a lot to the table by sharing tricks, tips, and education for your next gathering.