News — Butcher's Block

Best end-grain chopping board for sharp knives?

If you want to keep sharp knives in top condition, the best end-grain style chopping board in the Deer & Oak range is the Large Acacia Board (DNO-ACB-LG), sized 45x35 cm and 2.1 kg. It uses a forgiving hardwood surface that is kind to knife edges and, with regular oiling, will support daily cooking for at least 5 to 10 years in a busy home kitchen. Why end-grain style boards protect sharp knives Knife edges last longer on wood that lets the blade sink slightly between the fibres instead of crashing onto a hard, flat surface. True end-grain boards show...

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Are end grain boards best for knife maintenance?

If your main goal is knife maintenance, end grain boards usually offer the best protection for sharp edges and can extend the time between sharpenings by roughly 30 to 50 percent compared with hard plastic or glass. However, a well made edge grain bamboo or acacia board, such as the 45x35cm Deer & Oak Large Bamboo Board at 1.8kg, will still keep your knives in good condition for 5 to 10 years of regular home use if you care for it properly. End grain vs other boards for knife maintenance End grain boards are made so the wood fibres stand...

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End grain wood cutting boards for raw meat?

If you want the safest and most durable surface for raw meat, a thick end grain wood or butcher style board used only for meat and cleaned within 5 minutes of use is one of the best options for most home kitchens. The key is simple: use a dedicated board, at least 38x28cm in size, wash it in hot soapy water straight after cutting, and let it dry fully before the next use. Are end grain wood cutting boards safe for raw meat? Yes, end grain wood cutting boards can be safely used for raw meat, as long as you...

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Why do end grain boards protect knives better?

If you want to keep a quality chef’s knife sharp for 5 to 10 years of regular home cooking, an end grain wooden board is usually the best choice because the knife edge slides between the wood fibres instead of cutting straight across them. That single detail reduces microscopic chipping, so you sharpen less often and your blade lasts longer. What is an end grain board and how is it different? On an end grain board you are cutting on the ends of the wood fibres, like looking down at a bundle of drinking straws. On a normal long grain...

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