Use the right knives for hard and soft cheeses

When it comes to slicing hard cheeses cleanly, there are a few options.  A spade knife is well-known for its ability to slice parmesan cheese or pecorino, and you can use a one-or two-handled hard cheese knife for many hard varieties. A little cheese cleaver is useful for semi-hard types, and is also visually appealing. Cheese wires make clean work of blocks of semi-hard cheeses like provolone and Gruyère, too, but can also be used for some semi-soft varieties. And a two-pronged cheese fork is a handy addition to your board, as it's great for picking up all sorts of cheeses.

For soft cheeses, you'll need a soft cheese knife – a long, thin blade with holes in so the dairy doesn't stick to the metal. A slim-blade knife is ideal for sticky cheeses like halloumi, while a pronged knife helps to pick up semi-soft cheeses such as Muenster. A spreader can be useful for very soft varieties. And fans of blue cheese might find it helpful to serve it with a dedicated stilton scoop.

Whether you're craving a chunk of fresh mozzarella or a stiff slice of Parmigiano-Reggiano, selecting the right knife can make a world of difference in your cheese experience. And using different knives for each cheese will also reduce the risk of cross-contamination, too. All you need to remember now is how to cut cheese the right way.

What knife Is Best for Cutting Cheese?

You could use a thin kitchen knife or butter knife for soft cheeses, though these cannot fully replace a purpose-built German knife.

German knives are made using a forging process where the steel is heated and shaped, a method that enhances the blade's density and durability. The blades are meticulously ground and sharpened to achieve a precise edge, making them versatile for tasks such as cutting vegetables or meat.

The handles are crafted from materials like wood or resin and are ergonomically designed for comfort. Each knife undergoes rigorous quality checks, ensuring the superior craftsmanship that German knife-making traditions are known for.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheese Slices

To ensure you're chopping cheese like a pro, here are some fantastic recommendations from culinary experts:

• Cheese's texture and appearance can be affected by residue from previous slices. For optimal results, clean your knife between cuts.

• Slightly cooled soft cheeses slice more easily.

• Hard cheeses may need to be brought to room temperature to prevent crumbling.

• Hold the cheese with both hands and maintain a comfortable posture. This technique improves accuracy and reduces strain.

Any cheese can be easily sliced and diced if you have the proper equipment. If you're feeling hungry after all this cheese talk, start imagining your cheese board. But first, check out our collection of knives, including those made with Damascus steel.

Join the world's largest knife community by sharing your masterpieces. With our regularly updated DSKK blade collection available for online orders, you can test out your new knives on your favorite cheeses.