Do I Need a Special Knife like a Sashimi or Yanagiba Knife for Sushi?

When it comes to sushi preparation, one may wonder if a special knife, such as a Sashimi or Yanagiba knife, is necessary. These traditional Japanese knives are specifically designed for slicing raw fish and are highly regarded among professional sushi chefs. However, the question remains: Do you really need a specialized knife to create delicious […]

Japanese knives: how to spot the real deal vs. a knock-off?

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 […]

A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Your First Japanese Knife: A Newbie’s Essential Advice

Are you a complete knife newbie looking to buy your first Japanese knife? Congratulations on taking the first step towards enhancing your culinary journey! Japanese knives are renowned for their exceptional sharpness, precision, and craftsmanship, making them a popular choice among chefs and home cooks worldwide. In this beginner’s guide, we will provide you with […]

The Most Comprehensive Guide To Buying Your First Japanese Knife

Looking to buy a Japanese knife? Confused by the choices? Not sure where to start? Well, look no further, this comprehensive guide will help you identify which Japanese knife is most suitable for your needs – and if it’s even the right choice for you. A knife is the most important tool in the kitchen […]

What Japanese Kitchen Knife Is Best For Women?

When it comes to selecting a perfect Japanese knife for women, the truth is, there isn’t a specific Japanese knife type for women. The beauty of these knives is the fact that they can be used by everyone. What determines which type of knife is good for you is the size of your hands and […]

Knife History – Forging Methods

A bit of a knife history… The city of Sakai is situated by the Osaka bay at the Japanese main island. It is said that the foundations for knife making were laid down as early as the fifth century AD. That is when the great mounds, the Kofun, were built. This required excellent tools, which […]

Are Japanese Carving Knives As Good As The Western Ones?

Sujikihi knives The Sujihiki or Subihiki – as some also call them – is the Japanese version of the slicing Western knives. Sujihiki knives are also used for carving. A carving knife is much thinner than a chef’s knife (particularly at the spine) and has a sharper edge than Western versions, enabling it to carve […]

The Difference Between Aogami #2 And Aogami Super Blue

The Queen of the steels – Aogami Blue Super (Hitachi Metals Ltd.) is one of the greatest Japanese Carbon Steels. In addition to containing more Carbon, Chromium and Tungsten than Blue Steel No.1, it also includes Molybdenum. It has a very good edge sharpness and excellent edge retention.  It is also capable of attaining high […]

Different Types Of Kitchen Knives, What They’re Used For

As a dedicated cook or professional chef, it is not unusual to have big sets of more than a dozen different types of kitchen knives in use at once. Is it complicated? It can be. Does it need to be that way? That depends on the amount of time you are willing to spend, and […]

The Most Comprehensive Guide To Japanese Kitchen Knives You’ll Ever Read

As a home cook, you understand the importance of having the right tools in your kitchen. And when it comes to knives, Japanese kitchen knives have garnered a well-deserved reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship, cutting performance, and rich cultural heritage. But with a wide variety of Japanese knife types and styles available, it can be […]

What’s The Difference Between German Vs. Japanese Knives?

In the world of kitchen knives, two prominent players have emerged: German vs. Japanese knives. Each style possesses its own unique characteristics, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of their respective regions. Whether you’re an aspiring home cook or a seasoned chef, understanding the differences between German and Japanese knives is crucial in making an informed […]

Western Vs. Japanese Kitchen Knife Types

As a home cook, you know that a reliable kitchen knife is an essential tool in your culinary adventures. It’s the key to achieving precise cuts, effortless chopping, and overall culinary mastery. But with the wide range of knife types available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of kitchen knives, especially if you’re […]

Are Japanese Knives Worth Their Price?

In the realm of culinary tools, Japanese knives have gained immense recognition and admiration for their exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and cutting performance. However, for home cooks who are not so familiar with the intricacies of Japanese knife-making or the names associated with these knives, the question arises: Are Japanese knives worth their price? In this […]

Shirogami (#1) & Aogami (#2) Steels – The Difference

In this article, we will explain the differences between Shirogami (also called #1 steel) and Aogami (also called #2 steel). The words Ao and Shiro mean blue and white. Gami means metal. The numbers 1 and 2 are grade differences. It all has to do with the carbon content and the alloy content. Shirogami Steel […]

The Difference Between A Single And A Double Bevel Blade

When it comes to the world of knives, one of the fundamental distinctions lies in the type of blade edge: single or double-edged. This key feature plays a significant role in the cutting performance, functionality, and cultural heritage of different knife styles, particularly in Japanese and Western culinary traditions. In European tradition, knives are bevelled […]