Cheese Knives: Slicing Through The Options

Whether you're a cheese lover on the go or a frequent entertainer, having the right cheese knife can elevate your cheese experience. Different types of cheeses require different types of knives, and using the correct cheese knife is important to get the perfect cut and fully appreciate the flavor and texture of the cheese. For example, a soft cheese like Brie requires a thin, sharp blade to glide through the cheese without crushing it, while a firmer cheese like Parmesan requires a sharp chef's knife to avoid uneven cuts. So, what are the best cheese knives for different types of cheeses, and how do you choose the right one?

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Cheese knife sets for hard and soft cheeses

When it comes to cheese, having the right knife can make all the difference. The type of cheese knife you use will affect the flavour and texture of the cheese, so it's important to use the correct one.

For soft cheeses, a thin, sharp blade is ideal. You don't want to smush or crumble delicate cheeses like Brie, Camembert, ricotta, or burrata. A butter knife is a good option for spreading soft cheeses onto crackers or bread. A wire cheese slicer is also a great choice for soft cheeses, creating perfect slices without smashing them. Some soft cheese knives have thin blades with notches, ensuring a straight cut and a visually appealing display.

For hard cheeses, a sturdy, wide-bladed knife is needed. Parmesan, for example, requires a knife with some power behind it. A good hard cheese knife will also have an ergonomic handle for ease of use.

If you're looking for a set of cheese knives to handle a variety of cheeses, there are several options available. The Boska Monaco+ Black Cheese Knife Set is a durable option that can handle both hard and soft cheeses. The Dalstrong Gladiator Series 4-Piece Charcuterie & Cheese Knife Set is another great option for a variety of cheeses, though it comes at a higher price point. For a budget-friendly option, the Henckels 5-Piece Cheese Set is a good choice. If you're looking for a travel-sized set, La Cote offers a set with sweet-styled cleavers, parmesan knives, and pronged knives, though it is a bit limited in terms of cheese types.

When it comes to the best cheese knife sets for hard and soft cheeses, it's important to consider the types of cheese you'll be serving, the durability of the knives, and your budget. With the right set of cheese knives, you'll be able to enjoy your favourite cheeses to their fullest potential.

Best individual cheese knives

When it comes to the best individual cheese knives, it's important to consider the type of cheese you'll be cutting. Different cheeses require different knives for the perfect cut and texture.

For soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, blue cheese, or goat's cheese, a soft cheese knife with a thin, sharp blade is ideal. This type of knife prevents the cheese from sticking and ensures a clean cut without smashing the cheese. The WÜSTHOF Gourmet 5" Cheese Knife, for example, is designed for soft cheeses and features a narrow, sharp blade that glides through creamy cheeses without pulling or crushing them. It also has holes in the blade to keep the cheese from sticking. Boska, a Dutch company that makes classic and functional cheese tools, offers another excellent option for soft cheeses. Their lightweight stainless steel knife easily slices through goat's milk cheese with rind and makes precise cuts through Brie.

On the other hand, firmer cheeses like Parmesan or Cheddar require a sharp chef's knife or a hard cheese knife. A sturdy and versatile option for these cheeses is the Global Classic 5.5-Inch Cheese Knife, which earned top marks for its durable material and sharp blade. It effortlessly slices through hard and soft cheeses.

If you're a fan of crumbly blues or harder varieties like aged Gouda, a big boy blade or a wide-blade spear knife is perfect for chipping snackable chunks. For those who enjoy picnics and want a versatile knife, the Opinel is a gourmet's pocket knife with a simple stainless steel blade that can portion any cheese. It also includes a handy corkscrew in the durable beechwood handle, making it an excellent choice for outdoor dining.

Additionally, for semi-firm cheeses like young Gouda or Havarti, a knife with holes in the blade to reduce drag and keep the cheese from sticking is a great option. This type of knife often has a fork-tip design, allowing you to easily pick up the cheese and enjoy it.

Knives for different types of cheese

When it comes to knives for different types of cheese, it's important to use the right tool to get the perfect cut and preserve the flavour and texture of the cheese. Here are some considerations for choosing the best knife for different types of cheese:

Soft Cheeses

Soft cheeses like Brie, goat's cheese, Camembert, blue cheese, and other mould varieties require a knife with a thin, sharp blade that can glide through the creamy cheese without pulling or crushing it. A butter knife-style blade is ideal for spreading soft cheeses on crackers or bread. A wire cutter or cheese wire is also a good option for slicing soft cheeses into perfect slices without smashing their shape.

Semi-Firm and Semi-Hard Cheeses

For semi-firm and semi-hard cheeses like young Gouda, Havarti, cheddar, and Colby, a different type of knife is needed. A knife with holes in the blade is ideal for reducing drag and keeping the cheese from sticking. This type of knife is also great for crumbly blues or crunchy cheeses like aged Gouda.

Hard Cheeses

For hard cheeses like Parmesan, Manchego, or Parmigiano, a sharp chef's knife or a hard cheese knife is necessary. Dutch cheese knives, with handles on each side of the blade, are designed for hard cheeses and can crumble the cheese effectively.

On-the-Go Options

If you're a cheese lover who enjoys picnics or outdoor dining, consider a pocket knife-style cheese knife. The Opinel knife, for example, is made of stainless steel and has a durable beechwood handle that houses a corkscrew—perfect for opening a bottle of wine to pair with your cheese.

Sets

If you serve a variety of cheeses or entertain frequently, consider investing in a cheese knife set. Sets can offer a range of knives suitable for different types of cheeses, ensuring you always have the right tool for the job.

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Cheese knife care and maintenance

Cheese knives are a must-have for any cheese lover. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on the type of cheese they are intended for. Soft cheese knives, for example, often have thinner blades with less surface area to prevent the cheese from sticking. On the other hand, hard cheese knives tend to have wider blades and can be used to cut through whole wheels of cheese.

To ensure your cheese knives last for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips for taking care of your cheese knives:

• Wash your cheese knives by hand: The harsh environment of a dishwasher can dull blades and damage handles. Hand washing your cheese knives is the best way to ensure their longevity.
• Use soap: Soap is not harmful to knives and can help prevent unpleasant odours.
• Wipe off the blade between cheeses: To avoid cross-contamination of flavours, it is important to wipe the blade clean after cutting each type of cheese.
• Store in a safe place: Cheese knives should be stored securely to avoid damage to the blades or handles.
• Bring cheese to room temperature before serving: Particularly soft, ripe, or creamy cheeses will cut more cleanly if brought to room temperature before slicing.
• Choose the right knife for the right cheese: Using the correct cheese knife will not only improve your user experience but also help preserve the texture and flavour of the cheese.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your cheese knives remain in good condition and continue to enhance your cheese-cutting and serving experience.

Best pocket knives for cheese

When it comes to pocket knives for cheese, there are a few options that stand out. If you're a self-proclaimed "cheese lover on the go", the Opinel knife is an excellent choice. With a simple stainless steel blade, it can portion any type of cheese, from hard Parmesan to soft mozzarella. Plus, it comes with a clever corkscrew hidden inside the durable beechwood handle, making it perfect for picnics.

Another excellent option for a pocket knife is the Global Classic 5.5-inch Cheese Knife. Its durable material, versatile design, and sharp blade make it a top choice for slicing through both hard and soft cheeses. It's made of stainless steel, with a serrated blade and a textured grip for easy handling.

For those who prefer a funky-shaped knife, the Boska cheese knife is a great choice. This Dutch company has been crafting classic and functional cheese tools since 1896. Their lightweight stainless steel knife is super sharp and easily slices through soft cheeses like goat's milk cheese and Brie. It's also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.

If you're looking for a pocket knife that can handle a variety of cheeses, consider a knife with a thin, sharp blade. This type of knife is ideal for soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or blue cheese, as it glides through the creamy cheese without pulling or crushing it. The WÜSTHOF Gourmet 5" Cheese Knife is a perfect example, with its narrow blade and classic holes to prevent sticky cheeses from clinging.

Lastly, for those who enjoy a good wine and cheese night, the Boska Monaco+ Black Cheese Knife Set is a stylish and durable option. This set will ensure you're prepared for any type of cheese, from soft Brie to hard Parmesan, and will last through years of entertaining.

Remember, when choosing a pocket knife for cheese, consider the type of cheese you'll be slicing and opt for a durable, sharp, and versatile knife that will enhance your cheese-loving adventures.

Frequently asked questions