As any chef will tell you, having a good knife is essential in the kitchen. Not only does it make the preparation of food quicker and easier, but it also helps to ensure that meals are cooked evenly and correctly. While there are many different brands of knives on the market, it is important to know the major ones. This way, you can be sure that you are getting a quality product that will last for years to come.
Below are some of the top-rated major knife brands to look at when shopping for knives:
1. Wüsthof
Wüsthof is a German knife manufacturer that has been in business since 1814. The company produces a wide variety of knives, including kitchen knives, steak knives, and pocket knives. Wüsthof’s blades are made from high-carbon stainless steel, and the handles are usually made from synthetic materials such as polypropylene or polyoxymethylene.
Wüsthof knives are known for their sharpness and durability, and they are widely used by professional chefs and home cooks alike. In addition to selling knives, the company also manufactures other kitchen tools, such as cutting boards and sharpeners.
Wüsthof is headquartered in Solingen, Germany, and it has subsidiaries in the United States, Canada, Japan, and China.
2. Shun Cutlery
Shun Cutlery is one of the most popular knife brands available on the market today. Featuring a unique blend of style and functionality, Shun knives are prized by professional chefs and home cooks alike. The blades are made from high-quality stainless steel and are designed to resist corrosion. The handles are ergonomically shaped for comfort and balance, and the knives come with a padded storage case for safekeeping.
In addition to its classic chef’s knives, Shun also offers a variety of specialty knives, such as Santoku knives, carving knives, and bread knives. With its wide range of products, Shun Cutlery is a top choice for anyone in the market for a new set of knives.
3. Zwilling J.A. Henckels
Zwilling J.A. Henckels is a world-renowned maker of high-quality knives, founded in 1731 in Germany. The company’s blades are favored by professional chefs and home cooks alike for their sharpness, durability, and ergonomic design. Today, Zwilling J.A. Henckels is one of the largest and most respected knife brands in the world, with a wide range of products that includes everything from steak knives to Santoku knives.
Whether you’re looking for an everyday kitchen knife or a specialized tool for your next camping trip, Zwilling J.A. Henckels has the perfect blade for the job.
4. Global
Global is one of the most recognizable knife brands in the world. The company was founded in 1985 by Yoshikin, a Japanese company that has been making knives for centuries. Today, Global is based in Seki City, Japan and exports its knives to over 60 countries.
Global knives are made from a hi-carbon stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion and holds an edge well. The blades are also razor-sharp and can be easily resharpened. In addition, the handles are ergonomically designed for comfort and balance. As a result, Global knives are prized by both professional chefs and home cooks alike.
5. Edge of Belgravia
Officially launched in London in 2012, Edge of Belgravia is a major knife brand that produces some of the finest blades in the world. Its products are used by top chefs in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe and have won numerous awards, including the prestigious Grand Prix de la Table.
The brand’s success is built on its commitment to quality and innovation, and its team of skilled craftsmen who continue to push the boundaries of knife-making. Today, Edge of Belgravia is widely recognized as one of the leading brands in the industry, and its products are available in over 50 countries around the world.
How to choose a kitchen knife
When it comes to choosing a kitchen knife, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the type of food you will be preparing most often. If you do a lot of chopping, for example, you will want a knife with a wide blade. For slicing and dicing, a narrower blade is preferable.
Second, consider the size of the knife. A larger knife is more versatile, but a smaller knife is easier to control.
Third, think about the material the knife is made from. Stainless steel is durable and easy to care for, but it can dull quickly. Carbon steel is sharper but requires more Maintenance. Finally, think about the handle.
A comfortable handle will make it easier to use the knife for extended periods of time. With these factors in mind, you should be able to choose a kitchen knife that suits your needs perfectly.
You may also read our article on How to Choose the Right Type of Kitchen Knife for Different Tasks for more tips and recommendations.
Tips when maintaining the quality of kitchen knives
Kitchen knives are an essential tool in any cook’s arsenal, and it is important to keep them in good condition. Here are a few tips for maintaining the quality of your kitchen knives.
First, always store your knives in a safe place where they will not become damaged. A knife block or drawer liner is a good option.
Second, sharpen your knives regularly. A sharp knife is a safer knife, and it will also make cooking tasks easier.
Third, avoid exposing your knives to extreme temperatures. Extreme heat can cause the blade to warp, while extreme cold can make the steel brittle and more prone to breakage.
Finally, always clean your knives after use. Wash them by hand in warm, soapy water and dry them immediately to prevent rusting.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your kitchen knives will stay in top condition for years to come.
Conclusion
Kitchen knives are an important part of any kitchen. They can be used for a variety of tasks, from slicing meat to dicing vegetables. When shopping for kitchen knives, it is important to consider the different types of blades and what each one is best suited for. It is also important to find a set that feels comfortable in your hand and has a design that you like. With these factors in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect kitchen knife for your needs.