Chinese chef knives with a thicker blade are usually designed to cut through bone, so the manufacturer will indicate that in the product description. Not all models are meant for cutting through bone, for example, so the knife may be described as good for cutting vegetables and meat. The marketing of many Chinese chef knives lets you know what tasks the knives are designed for. As long as you choose a knife with a nonslip grip, any material that suits your personal preference is fine. All three materials can work well, though wood has the most attractive appearance. HandleĬhinese chef knives are available with handles made of wood, stainless steel, and molded plastic. You can find knives with blades that are as long as 11 inches. Seven inches is the most common and the most versatile, but avoid shorter knives because they aren’t as useful.
A full tang Chinese chef knife also feels more balanced in the hand, which can make it easier to use. This type of knife is more durable because the blade isn’t as likely to break off. That means the knife may be more prone to breakage where the blade and handle meet.Ī “full tang” Chinese chef knife means that the blade and handle are one continuous piece of metal. A “partial tang” Chinese chef knife means that the blade and the handle aren’t a single continuous piece.
Tang: The tang is the prong or shank that connects the blade to the handle. Key considerations ConstructionĪs with any kitchen knife, choosing a high-quality Chinese chef knife can help ensure that it is durable and well balanced. If you feel any strain in your wrist or forearm, it’s best to try another model.
We also have some specific recommendations to make shopping as simple as possible.Ī good Chinese chef knife should feel solid in your hand without being too heavy.
If you’re unsure how to find the best one for you, take a look at our buying guide for all the tips you need. It’s an ideal tool for anyone who wants a single knife to help with many food-prep tasks.Ĭhoosing a Chinese chef knife isn’t easy, though, because there are many factors to consider.
It can be used for a wide range of kitchen tasks, including slicing and chopping vegetables, peeling fruit, crushing garlic cloves, and deboning and pounding meat. The rectangular blade has an extremely sharp edge that’s usually ground at a slight angle. Knives are some of the most basic kitchen tools, but if you’re tired of needing a different knife for each task, it might be time to invest in a Chinese chef knife.Ī Chinese chef knife, also known as a Chinese cleaver, is a multi-purpose knife, which is why it’s often the only one that traditional Chinese chefs use. Having the right tools in the kitchen is essential if you want to prepare your favorite dishes quickly and easily. Buying guide for best chinese chef knives