It’s important to know how to use kitchen knives safely and efficiently. When you cook with fresh, whole foods, chopping ingredients is often necessary. Here are some important terms you should know.

Remember to practice safe knife skills as well.

• Make sure your knife and cutting board are sanitized. Place a towel under the cutting board to make sure it doesn’t slip.
• Peel food, if needed. Throw away the peels and keep the cutting board clean and clear.
• Hold the knife close to the blade with your dominant hand, with your fingers wrapped securely around the handle for the best control.
• Place your other hand on the food you will be cutting. Curl your fingers like a claw and keep your thumb and pinky finger behind your other fingers.
• Do not lift the front of the knife off the cutting board.
• Use a rocking, circular motion to slice the food. Go slowly at first until you’re more comfortable. Push the knife forward as you lower it and slice.
• Cut food in half lengthwise for long foods, like cucumbers. Cut food into quarters for round foods, like tomatoes.
• Slice foods by cutting quarters into sticks.
• Cube foods by cutting sticks into cubes. Try to make cubes the same size.

VCE Video Resources

Cleaning Knives

How to Chop an Onion

How to Chop and Slice an Apple