When it comes to electric knives, the main use they are employed in is the carving of meat. Many people find that if they are cutting a large amount of meat, say for the family Christmas dinner, which an electric carver makes the job less physically demanding. It also allows for a more consistent result in the meat that is carved. So here are some tips when you are shopping for one.
Uses
Whilst carving the joint of meat is the primary use, many people find for an electric knife, it is not the only one. It can do a range of jobs from cutting up fresh bread to slicing onions and tomatoes and even removing corn from the cob.
If you want a knife that does more than just carve, it can be worth seeking one out that has two sets of blades. One will be the longer one for cutting meat while the shorter one will slice through bread and those other jobs.
Another consideration is the amount of power the knife has – look for at least 100 watts. Also, aim for a high torque motor on the knife unit as this gives it the extra power needed to cut through tough meats.
Length of cord is something else to watch for. Keep in mind where you want to use it in relation to the nearest power point to make sure that the cable is long enough to reach without setting up a hazardous tight wire. Alternative, you can get cordless versions but they can sacrifice longevity of use for this lack of cord so if you plan to be carving for quite a while, these may not have the battery life to finish the job.
Specifics
Professionals recommend for carving a blade be at least 8 inches in length, though the longer the blade, the greater its flexibility. This means it will be easier to use when the meat is hard or there is bone involved. Longer blades are also recommended for larger cuts of meat as well as for harder artisan breads.
As with any kitchen knife, the better quality you can afford to buy, the longer it will last and remain sharp. Bargain priced products can be purchased, however these may lack for reliability in the longer term. Balance this against a product occasionally used however and a low priced knife may suit your needs.
Caring for the knife
Maintenance is simple enough for electric knives. Remove the blade from the power unit once you have stopped the power by either unplugging it or taking out the batteries. You can then clean the blade as you would any knife. You can wipe over the power unit with a damp cloth but be careful to avoid the areas where the electricity connects up.
Many knives come with a storage case or pouch and this is the best place to keep it when not in use. Not only does this lessen the chance of an accident but also means the blade isn’t coming into contact with anything that can result in it become dull.
