A good knife is an essential kitchen tool. If you have a cheap and/or dull knife, it can take twice the time to complete a task and be dangerous. There is a better chance you will cut yourself with a dull knife than a sharp one.
For most home and professional chefs, there are 3 knives that are used all the time:
1. Chef's knife or sometimes referred to as French Knife (approximately $50-100)
Good for chopping vegetables, herbs and raw/cooked meats or fish
2. Serrated Knife or Bread Knife (approximately $50)
Good for cutting bread or carving turkey, ham or roast beef
3. Pairing Knife (approximately $20)
Good for cutting all the small vegetables or fruits
Mid Range set for all 3 will run between $120-$200. If you would like to start out with just one, the chef's knife would be recommended.
When selecting a set (or each one individually) look for these qualities:
6 inch or 8 inch chef knife, bigger knives should only be used after you are comfortable with these sizes
Forged Stainless steel, won't rust and will stay sharper longer, also easier to clean
Better knives have better balance which makes them more comfortable and easier to us
Full tang - means the metal portion of the knife runs all the way through the handle
Good knives will last a long time and with proper care should rarely need to be replaced. Once your are comfortable using your new knives, cutting vegetables will be easy and you will save a lot of time in the kitchen making healthy and delicious meals for your family to enjoy.
