A Quick Overview Of Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are available in such a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes that most cooks find it impossible to choose just one. Instead, they buy several, and then let the task decide which to use.
Small plastic cutting boards are staples in most kitchens. These are great for a fast job such as slicing vegetables for hamburgers or cutting a boiled egg to add to a salad. Extremely inexpensive, these take up little room in a drawer or dishwasher. They are so convenient and versatile that they are often the only cutting boards many cooks use.
Wood cutting boards come in all different sizes and were once the standard for virtually all kitchens. Also called butcher blocks, they have become less popular in recent years due to fears of cross-contamination and the spread of salmonella or e-coli. While it is true that it is difficult to thoroughly disinfect wood cutting boards, new products have appeared on the market that can kill bacteria without damaging the wood. Wood cutting boards should be sealed, and you might want to discontinue their use if the varnish is worn or if deep cuts in the wood are present. Butcher block cutting boards are the only kind recommended for use with a meat cleaver, as other types cannot take the punishment.
Folding cutting boards are handy for adding your chopped foods directly to another container. They are available in many different sizes, and are perfect for chopping vegetables for a stew and then adding them to the pot without spilling. Most styles are made of a flexible plastic that lets it bend and then quickly return to shape.
Large plastic cutting boards of about 12″ x 15″ are good choices for boning a chicken or tenderizing steaks. They are not expensive, and are dishwasher safe. These multi-purpose boards work equally well for chopping vegetables or cubing meat.
Glass cutting boards that feature designs or photographs are meant to be left on the counter and add a cheery touch to your decor. Look for the footed styles so that they will not slip while you work. They are a breeze to clean and are not expensive, although they do cost a bit more than plastic cutting boards.
Corian cutting boards are one of the most versatile types on the market when it comes to colors and shapes. These cutting boards are also heat resistant, so they can double as trivets. Corian cutting boards last a very long time and clean up is easy. They are also perfect for kneading or rolling doughs and pie crusts.
Granite cutting boards are also available, but have been waning in popularity. They are heavier and more expensive than many other types, which may account for their decline. However, their beauty is such that many cooks feel they are well worth any inconveniences they cause.
One trend that has been growing in recent years is the use of custom cutting boards that are designed to cover a counter top. The best arrangements feature easy removal for cleaning underneath them and a size that is perfectly cut to fit.
No mater what your tastes or preferences, you can find a complete wardrobe of cutting boards to handle any chore you need to perform. If you cannot find just what you want locally, visit one of the many online retailers and browse through hundreds of different cutting boards to select precisely what you want.
Mary T. Decker has used Cutting Boards for many years. For more insights and information, go to http://www.cuttingboards4u.info
