Santoku Knives

Santoku knives originated in Japan, designed as a shorter and lighter alternative to the traditional chef's knife. "Santoku" means "three virtues" in Japanese, referring to its ability to chop, slice, and dice various ingredients such as: vegetables, meat, and fish. The Santoku design combines the Nakiri knife, ideal for chopping vegetables, and the Gyuto knife, perfect for slicing meat and fish.

The blade of a Santoku Knife are short but sharp

The blade of a santoku knife is shorter than a traditional chef's knife, usually between 5 to 7 inches long. The blade is thinner and has a wide, scalloped edge that reduces sticking and drag while cutting.

Japanese-style knives that are designed specifically for chopping vegetables. The word "Nakiri" means "leaf cutter" in Japanese, referring to its ability to easily slice through vegetables.

Nakiri knives have rectangular-shaped blades that are usually 6 to 7 inches long. The blade is relatively thin, with a straight edge and a squared-off tip. This design makes it perfect for cutting through vegetables without crushing or tearing them, as the straight edge allows for a clean and precise cut.

This is a Japanese-style chef's knife designed for versatile cutting tasks, including slicing, dicing, and chopping meat, vegetables, and fish. It typically has a thinner, lighter blade than a Western-style chef's knife and a more acute edge angle, allowing precise and clean cuts. The blade length usually ranges from 7 to 9 inches.

One of the santoku knife's unique features is the Granton edge, which reduces drag and sticking while cutting. The Granton edge also allows for thinner slicing and creates air pockets, which help release food from the blade. The scalloped edge of a santoku knife also adds a bit to its versatility by allowing for precise cuts.

Santoku Knife's Blade

The Santoku knife's blade is usually made from high-quality stainless steel or hardened steel, which gives it strength and durability. The blade's hardness is measured on the Rockwell hardness scale, with a higher number indicating a harder blade. A harder blade retains its edge for longer and is more resistant to chipping. A Scalloped blade helps cut through metals without chipping.

Santoku Knife Handles

The handle of these knives are usually made from wood or stainless steel, with a comfortable grip that ensures complete control over the knife's weight. The handle's design is also essential, as it affects the knife's balance and control. A well-designed handle can prevent slipping and control the knife's movements better.

When choosing a santoku knife, consider your cooking needs and preferences. If you mostly chop vegetables, go for a thinner blade; if you cook meat and fish, a thicker blade is ideal. Consider the blade material, such as hardened steel, ceramic, or stainless steel, and the blade edge type, either double-bevelled or single-bevelled. Look for a comfortable handle made from rust-resistant material and easy to maintain.

There are many fantastic santoku knives available on the market today. Some of the top picks include the Victorinox Scalloped Edged Santoku Knife, the Dick 1905 Santoku Knife, and the Tskuki Series 8 Santoku Knife. These knives offer a range of features (including competitive prices), making it easy to find the perfect one for your needs. The most best Santoku knife for you may not necessarily be the most expensive one. It's all about finding the right balance of features and prices for your specific needs.

Always store your santoku knife in a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guard to protect the blade from damage. Avoid storing it in a drawer with other utensils, which can cause scratches or damage.

Use soap & warm water to clean your Santoku knife after each use. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh detergents that can damage the blade's surface. Rinse the blade thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.

A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a dull one. Use honing steel or a sharpening stone to sharpen your santoku knife regularly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when sharpening a specific knife.

Santoku knives are an ideal addition to any kitchen set. Their unique design, versatile uses, and range of features make them perfect for both professional chefs and home cooks. Whether chopping vegetables, slicing meat, or dicing fish, a santoku knife is a fantastic investment that will last for years.

Trusted online for over 20 years, you'll be able to find a large range of the best Santoku Knives in our superstore as well as a huge selection of other kitchen knives.