How to Choose a Cutting Board

Which material is best for cutting boards?

The cutting board's material will greatly impact the board's style, longevity, and effectiveness in terms of diminishing odors and stains. The material can also affect your knives' sharpness.

• Cutting boards made of glass or ceramic should be avoided even if they're aesthetically pleasing. These materials are hard and can damage your knives.

• Wood cutting boards are classic and provide a soft cutting surface which is vital to keeping your knives sharp in the long run. If you want a more chic design, you can find ones with patterns such as zig zags and lines.

  ➔ Sturdy and stays in place while chopping.
  ➔ Some designs come with a channel around the border to catch the liquid from the ingredients you're slicing.
  ➔ Needs proper maintenance to avoid warping.
  ➔ Shouldn't be used in the dishwasher.

• Plastic is lightweight, comes in a wide selection of colors, and safe to use in the dishwasher.

  ➔ Ideal for color-coding your cutting boards. For instance, red is for meat, green is for vegetables, and orange is for fruits.

  ➔ Choose a plastic that is non-porous and antimicrobial. BPA-free plastic doesn't transfer dangerous chemicals to your ingredients.

• Bamboo is environmentally friendly and sturdier than most materials.

  ➔ Moisture-resistant, meaning bacteria won't be present and stains won't permeate.
  ➔ This material can't crack or warp.

• Epicurean cutting boards have a wood finish and are relatively simple in design.

  ➔ Dishwasher-safe
  ➔ Won't affect your knives.

What are the different types of cutting boards?

Most people have multiple cutting boards for different types of food. Here are the common types of cutting boards you might want to have in your kitchen:

• Carving cutting boards are preferable for slicing meat or any juicy ingredient such as tomatoes or strawberries since they have a juice groove.

  ➔ Doesn't mess your countertops while chopping your food.

• A bread cutting board can collect bread crumbs without causing a mess.

  ➔ Can be used to serve bread on the table.

• Standard cutting boards are the most common types and are the go-to for any task, such as chopping vegetables.

• A butcher board is thick, heavy, and suitable for cutting meat without damaging the cutting board.

  ➔ Doesn't slip across the counter when used.

How to choose a cutting board's size and shape?

• Rectangular boards are the most functional.

  ➔ 12x18in is the standard size.
  ➔ 15x20in is more convenient for larger ingredients.

• In terms of quantity, having three cutting boards is ideal: two large ones for meat and produce, and a small one for chopping herbs and smaller foods.

• Round cutting boards are stylish but aren't practical regarding space for preparing food. On the other hand, this shape can be used for displaying food on the table.

• A square cutting board may not be practical for some since it doesn't offer a lot of space in terms of length although it's convenient for smaller ingredients like cheese.

What are the extra features to look for in a cutting board?

Although most people decide to buy regular cutting boards, you can find cutting boards with additional features for better convenience and usefulness.

• Cutting boards with rubber feet offer stability for those with slippery surfaces.

• Reversible cutting boards can be used on both sides without the need to worry about its appearance.

• Cutting boards with non-slip features prevent knife accidents and remain stable while you're chopping the ingredients.

• Opt for a cutting board that is dishwasher-safe if you want the bacteria that are lingering on your board to be properly killed.

• Some cutting boards come with a knife holder which is space-saving and practical.

• Handles are a beneficial feature for those who want to easily control their cutting board when using or carrying around. You'll be able to hold your cutting board firmly with one hand while dropping your ingredients in the pan.

• Choose a set of cutting boards if you want them to have a cohesive look in different sizes. Sets look aesthetically pleasing when stored together.