How to Use a Carving Knife

A carving knife is a large knife that is used to cut meat or large food items. A carving knife may also be used to cut small details in gourmet fruit or delicate meat. Get creative as you carve holiday meat, a delicate fruit sculpture or vegetable assortment.

Things You'll Need

• Thawed and cleaned or cooked meat
• Clean vegetables or fruit or food that needs to be cut
• Clean cutting board
• Carving knife

Instructions

1. Plan the menu. Whether you are serving juicy meat or a beautiful fruit sculpture, a carving knife may be the perfect instrument.

2. Determine which type of carving knife you need. Carving knives come in a variety of options in size and use. For large food, use a bigger carving knife; for moderate detail, use a smaller carving knife.

3. Arrange a clean cutting board for the meat or other food.

4. Grip the handle with your primary hand so that you have more control over the carving knife.

5. Arrange the food with the other hand, in a position to be cut.

6. Carve the meat by moving from the outside inward. You may also want to use a long-tined fork to keep the meat from moving or shifting.

7. Slowly cut the meat or food by pressing down gently in a slicing motion.

8. Cut veggies or other food using the appropriate carving knife to cut the food into suitable sizes or shapes.

9. Clean the knife by hand with hot water and soap. Wash after each use and thoroughly dry.

10. Store the knife out of the reach of children.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep your fingers clear of the cutting motion of the blade.

• Sharpen the knife on a regular basis to keep it cutting to the fullest capabilities.