The Santoku with a Granton Edge enhances the ample depth of a cook's knives and super sharp blades with "kullens" or alternating hollow ground ovals in the blade.
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KitchenWare :: Cutlery :: Santoku
The Santoku with a Granton Edge enhances the ample depth of a cook's knives and super sharp blades with "kullens" or alternating hollow ground ovals in the blade.
Santoku Products
Wusthof 7-in. Classic Santoku with Bamboo Board
Styled after the Japanese Cook's Knife, this 7-in. blade is just right for sushi and sashimi - or anything else that needs to be sliced paper thin. The hollow indents in the blade allow food to... [Read more about this product]
Why Get a Santoku Knife?
he Japanese are always innovating in whatever industry they get involved with. In this case, it's not about computers and software - another area where the Japanese have brought their unique style is that of kitchen cutlery. The santoku is a knife of Japanese design that's been growing in popularity.
You've likely seen some famous TV chefs using this blade to do their cutting, and there are good reasons you use one too."Santoku", loosely translated from Japanese, means "three virtues," or "three uses." The blade got its name because it well suited for specific cooking tasks: slicing, mincing, and dicing.
True to form, quality santoku are well crafted and expertly balanced. They are designed so that the weight of the blade is relative to the weight of the handle, making exact cuts with the blade a snap.
Generally ranging from 5 to 7 inches in length, smaller versions are also available. The design of the blade is basically an altered form of the common chef's knife. A flat-edged blade is the primary distinguishing characteristic between santoku and chef's knives.
The flattened blade is better suited to cutting items that are common in Japanese cuisine, such as fish, boneless meats, and various vegetables. Additionally, they are generally harder and sturdier than western knives.
Another hallmark of the design is known as the "granton edge". These divots in the blade enhance the appearance of the santoku while also creating pockets of air that help prevent friction and food sticking to the blade. It's is the perfect blade for precise cuts, due to it increased stability and sharpness compared to similar blades.
Given its versatile nature, the santoku makes a strong case for becoming your go-to kitchen knife. Be warned, however, that because their blades tend to be thinner, they can be easily damaged if you try cutting against odd surfaces or into bones.
If you're looking for something above and beyond the standard santoku, there are a few options for additional style and sturdiness. Some of these improvements include piercings through the blade for added style, and hand-hammered blades for supplementary blade strength.
There are several other options available to enhance both your cooking experience and the decor of your kitchen.As is the case with the majority of cookware, you'll find a wide variety of prices when shopping for santoku. Some of the primary factors that will drive prices up or down include the quality of the steel, size of the tang (which is the length of the metal that sticks into the handle), and the manufacturer.
If you're willing to pay a little more, you can also get a ceramic version, which brings a number of unique advantages along with its higher price.Many of the most renowned manufacturers offer santoku knives in their lineups. If you're looking for a top of the line model, you may consider German manufacturers such as Wusthof and Henckels.
These companies offer models that range from a low of $50 to a high of almost $200. Another company that produces is excellent ones is Kershaw, a Japanese company. An authentic Japanese blade from Kershaw will run between $100 and $200.
Before you make a purchase, know this: santoku made by non-Japanese companies may not share all of the qualities of authentic ones. Western manufacturers frequently use softer steel in their blades, which results in a thicker and less precise blade. This can also throw off the balance of a santoku, significantly reducing the comfort level.
The santoku may just be the key piece missing from your kitchen. If you're thinking about replacing some knives in the near future, or looking to expand your kitchen, it may be a perfect fit. It's a great way to add a little flair to your kitchen, and rest assured you won't be disappointed with this effective little knife, either.
