Knife Skills and Cuts Flashcards

Which part of the knife is the thick junction between the blade and the handle on a forged knife?

Answer: Bolster

The bolster is the thick band of metal where the blade meets the handle, adding balance and finger protection.

What does 'full tang' mean in knife construction?

Answer: The blade metal extends through the entire length of the handle

A full tang means the blade steel runs the whole length of the handle, giving strength and balance.

Which task is a paring knife best suited for?

Answer: Peeling and trimming small fruits and vegetables in hand

The short 3-4 inch blade of a paring knife excels at detailed in-hand work like peeling, trimming, and coring.

You need to cut raw chicken and then vegetables for a salad. What is the correct practice?

Answer: Use separate boards and knives, or wash and sanitize them between tasks

Raw poultry can cross-contaminate ready-to-eat foods, so equipment must be swapped or washed and sanitized between tasks.

What should you do if a knife falls off the counter?

Answer: Step back and let it fall — never try to catch it

Grabbing at a falling knife risks a severe cut; move your feet clear and pick it up after it lands.

Placing a damp towel or non-slip mat under a cutting board serves what purpose?

Answer: It keeps the board from sliding while you cut

A damp towel or mat anchors the board so it cannot slide mid-cut, which is a common cause of accidents.

Which blade style is typical of a Japanese santoku compared to a Western chef's knife?

Answer: A flatter edge profile with less curve, suited to up-and-down chopping

A santoku has a flatter edge and shorter blade than a chef's knife, favoring a straight up-and-down or gliding chop rather than rocking.