We’ve all been there. You’re halfway through dicing an onion when your eyes start stinging. Within seconds, tears are streaming down your face, your nose is running, and you can barely see what you’re doing. You try to power through, blinking frantically, but the burning only gets worse. It’s miserable, and it happens to nearly […]
If you’ve recently installed a magnetic knife rack, you’ve probably encountered a surprisingly heated debate: Should you hang your knives with the blade pointing up or down? It’s one of those kitchen questions that seems simple but sparks passionate opinions. Food bloggers insist blade-down is safer. Professional chefs often prefer blade-up. And plenty of experienced […]
Whether you’re a complete beginner stepping into the kitchen for the first time or a seasoned home cook looking to upgrade your knife game, understanding kitchen knives can transform your entire cooking experience. A good knife isn’t just a tool—it’s an extension of your hand, a precision instrument that can make the difference between tedious […]
Important Changes to US Shipping: What Our Customers Need to Know Starting August 29, 2025, shipping to the US is changing dramatically. After years of enjoying duty-free purchases under $800, all international packages now face customs duties and fees. However, there’s an important distinction: postal deliveries (like our Royal Mail to USPS service) have different […]
Dragon fruit — also known as pitaya — is one of nature’s most eye-catching fruits. With its vibrant pink skin and speckled flesh, it’s a showstopper both on the cutting board and on the plate. But if you’ve never handled one before, its spiky, cactus-like exterior might leave you wondering: how do I peel and […]
When a knife becomes part of your daily cooking ritual, it does more than cut food — it shapes how you cook, how you feel at the counter, and the memories that meal prep makes possible. At Oishya, we believe kitchen tools should be crafted to last and used to spark joy. That’s why knowing […]
Whether you’re a culinary novice taking your first steps in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking to elevate your skills and efficiency, mastering the art of faster chopping is one of the most transformative investments you can make in your culinary journey. For many home cooks, wielding a sharp knife can feel intimidating, but […]
The one professional technique that transforms nervous cooks into confident chefs – learn the safety secret that keeps your fingers protected while creating perfect onion cuts every time. If there’s one vegetable that strikes fear into novice cooks, it’s the onion. Despite being essential to countless recipes, onions have earned a reputation as finger-threatening adversaries. […]
As home cooks, we didn’t know until we started Oishya and we had to look it up. (But isn’t that how most of the world’s knowledge goes?) If you’re like us, you learned a “sorta way” to hold a knife when cutting an apple as a kid—probably wrapping your whole fist around the handle like […]
How to maintain your Japanese knife collection whilst creating a child-safe kitchen that works for the whole family Right, let’s talk about something that keeps many passionate home cooks awake at night—how to safely store your beautiful Japanese knives when you’ve got curious little fingers wandering about the kitchen. It’s a genuine concern, isn’t it? […]
How to handle your Japanese knives like a pro whilst keeping your fingers intact and your food absolutely pristine Right, let’s have a proper chat about Japanese knives and food safety, shall we? If you’ve recently invested in one of these beauties—or you’re thinking about it—you’ll want to know how to use them safely whilst […]
Table of Contents Introduction Understanding Sushi Types of Sushi Common Ingredients Before You Begin Choosing the Right Sushi Restaurant Reservations and Timing Dress Code The Sushi Bar Experience Seating Etiquette Interacting with the Sushi Chef Essential Sushi Etiquette Chopstick Do’s and Don’ts Proper Hand Usage Eating Order Soy Sauce and Wasabi Usage Ginger: Its Purpose […]
In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps consciousness, a quiet revolution is taking place in kitchens across the globe. Home cooking, once considered a daily chore, is emerging as a powerful tool in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. This resurgence of culinary creativity within our own four walls is not just […]
Thinking of making tataki, seared tuna slices? Tuna is an excellent choice for that due to its incredible nutritional profile and ability to be consumed raw safely. This rich, oily fish is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and an array of vitamins and minerals. Fresh tuna is an excellent source of niacin, […]
The world of Japanese kitchen knives is a captivating realm where centuries-old traditions intersect with modern culinary innovation. As you embark on this journey, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to invest in an individual knife or a complete set. This choice can seem daunting, especially for those new to the intricacies […]
In the annals of Japanese history, few traditions command as much reverence as the forging of Ni-honto, the legendary Japanese swords that have captured the imagination of warriors, scholars and collectors alike. These extraordinary blades, born from the exacting processes of firing and folding rare steel, are not mere weapons; they are living embodiments of […]
In the world of Japanese kitchen knives, sharpening is an art form deeply rooted in tradition and precision. These finely crafted blades, forged with meticulous care and expertise, demand an equally thoughtful approach to maintaining their razor-sharp edges. From the ancient techniques of the samurai swordsmiths to the modern tools of today, the art of […]
If you’ve invested in a set of premium Japanese kitchen knives, you know firsthand the joy of slicing through ingredients with precision and ease. However, maintaining that razor-sharp edge is crucial to ensure your knives continue performing at their best. Enter the art of whetstone sharpening – a traditional technique that has been passed down […]
For those starting their journey into the world of Japanese kitchen knives, one aspect that can seem incredibly daunting is understanding the grading system. Unlike their western counterparts, Japanese knives adhere to a unique grading scale that takes into account multiple factors such as steel composition, heat treatment processes, and craftsmanship. This intricate grading system […]
In the vibrant tapestry of our shared love for the culinary arts, we’re excited to unveil a kitchen secret that’s been a game-changer for many – the meticulous art of jar sterilisation. Knowing your prowess in the kitchen, we’re eager to walk you through the nuanced steps of this culinary journey. The foundation – why […]
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your kitchenware, moved to a new house, or perhaps you’ve heard that Japanese knives make the perfect, personal gift? You’re in for a treat! Japanese knives are not just tools; they’re a gateway to a world of culinary craftsmanship, precision, and tradition. Whether you’re a passionate home cook, an adventurous […]
Cooking knives are the unsung heroes of the kitchen, tirelessly assisting us in preparing delicious meals day in and day out. As they become an integral part of our culinary adventures, it’s essential to recognize when it’s time to bid farewell to our faithful companions and invest in new blades. Knowing when to replace your […]
“We don’t need a handful of people doing zero-waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.” Anne-Marie Bonneau In the UK, it is estimated that approximately 9.5 million tonnes of food is wasted every year. The average UK household throws away around £700 worth of food annually, which is equivalent to 4.5 million […]
How to make your brass utensils look better than when you bought them? That’s easy. Make a magic paste and remove de-colorisation in a couple of minutes. Ingredients: Mix together 1/2 cup of vinegar, 2-3 tbs of flour, 1-2 tbs of bicarbonate soda, 1-2 tbs of salt and stir well. Pour the paste onto your […]
As sellers of quality Japanese knives we often get asked how to look after Japanese knives by our customers. We have written various articles on the subject, which you can find in the “Equipment care” section of our Journal. Yet, this time around we asked Chef Olivia Burt to share some tips as to how […]
The claw grip technique is one of the most important cutting skills to learn in the kitchen. It is very simple to learn and extremely helpful to improve your cutting skills and ensure you are safe in the kitchen. It is a fundamental aspect for being safe around knives. It goes without saying that you […]
The first and most important knife skill you need to learn is how to hold your knife properly. Holding the knife properly will give you more control over the knife which makes it easier to cut and slice food. This strong grip is what allows chefs to chop with great speed as they know the […]
This blog post will talk you through everything you need to know before throwing a cooking party. If you are anywhere near as big of a foodie as us you love cooking parties. Yes, cooking parties, not dinner parties, we are talking about gathering your family and friends to cook together. Whether this is your […]
As restaurants remain closed due to the covid-19 pandemic we are spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Many people are now dealing with what has been named cooking fatigue. So here are 7 ways to help you overcome cooking fatigue. 1. Cooking class Another great way to overcome cooking fatigue is to learn […]
Charcuterie boards have become increasingly popular nowadays. Not only are they delicious and enjoyed by many, they also make for the perfect Instagram post. With a variety of cured meats, cheese, nuts, spreads, fruit and crackers, there is something in it for everyone to enjoy! What Is Charcuterie? Charcuterie is the art of preparing and […]