Three knives with wooden handles

Five essential knives every cooking lover should have. (Image: Canva)

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All about knives

by | 8 April 2024

I’m willing to bet that almost everyone reading this article is dissatisfied with their kitchen knives, and if you aren’t, you probably should be. This sad reality has two likely causes. Firstly, many people seem to believe that knives are multipurpose, and that one or two can achieve all the necessary cutting tasks in a kitchen. If this is you, I’m here to tell you that this is unfortunately not true. Secondly, I’m sure that most of you are using tragically blunt knives.

While I find the state of most people’s knives a bit heart-breaking, it’s also understandable. The price tags and vast range of knives on the market can be a little daunting, not to mention the world of sharpening. But I’m here to help!

I’ve assembled a list of what I believe are the five essential knives, as well as the nice-to-have ones for enthusiasts and professional chefs, and how to care for them.

Caitlin Kennedy

Caitlin Kennedy

Caitlin is a Capetonian chef and aspiring farmer with a deep love for the local food scene. When not cooking or eating, she can be found pottering about in a garden somewhere.

All views and opinions expressed in this article represent that of the author, Caitlin Kennedy, and do not represent that of Dineplan or the companies we work with. While we make every effort to ensure that the information we share is accurate, we welcome any comments, suggestions, or correction of errors.

5 Comments
  1. Flip

    How much the set

    Reply
    • Paige Errera (Dineplan)

      Hi Flip, we’ve included links to a couple of local retailers throughout the article who stock these products in SA. Just hit the links and you’ll see all the prices on their websites.

      Reply
  2. Flip

    I like the stel

    Reply
  3. Derek Jeken

    Lovely article.
    Caitlin knows her stuff.

    Reply
    • Dineplan

      She sure does! Thanks, Derek.

      Reply
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