Every kitchen tool has its special place in our hearts and cabinets, but there’s one that quite often gets overlooked: kitchen shears. When you have a good, sharp knife on hand, it might seem a little odd initially to take out a gadget that seems too similar to your office supplies. But truthfully, kitchen shears are an unsung hero of the pantry for their versatility and convenience.
Why you should love kitchen shears
I guarantee that having a sharp pair of kitchen shears to hand makes many cooking tasks considerably simpler. They’re uniquely suitable for tasks that need a little more finesse, like trimming fats off meat or opening a tightly sealed package.
What truly separates kitchen shears from your usual cutlery is the power to slice through food items with hard exterior shells, such as crustaceans or certain types of nuts, which can be quite labor-intensive when using a knife. The shears make quick work of cutting through these tough exteriors, saving you significant time and effort.
Beyond the usual snipping
Kitchen shears truly shine when you use them for more than just the average snipping. Do you detest the mess created when chopping herbs? Use the shears to snip them right into your pan with hardly any cleaning up. Need to break down a chicken quickly? Kitchen shears are your best friend.
Did you know you can even use them to scale a fish? Yes, indeed. Starting from the tail, just make small cuts towards the head, and the scales will come right off. A handy tip to remember: rinse your shears immediately after scaling to prevent the scales from drying onto the blades.
A quick word about cleaning because, with any instrument dealing with food, maintenance is essential. Depending on your model, some kitchen shears can be taken apart for easy cleaning, ensuring there are no residual food particles that could become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Effortless to use, versatile, and unbelievably handy in a pinch, kitchen shears prove their worth daily. So, the next time you’re reaching for your knife, pause and consider whether your trusty kitchen shears could do the job more efficiently.
After experiencing the convenience and versatility these indispensable tools offer, you’ll never question their place in your arsenal of kitchen essentials again. So the next time you’re confronted with a challenging food prep situation, don’t forget your trusty kitchen shears—they might just be the perfect tool for the job.
Kate Robinson is a culinary writer and food critic with a deep passion for gastronomy and a keen palate that appreciates flavors from around the world. At 31 years old, Kate’s background is as rich and diverse as her taste in food. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America, she has worked in various roles within the food industry, from a line cook in bustling New York City restaurants to a food stylist for culinary magazines.
Her transition into writing was driven by a desire to share her love for food and cooking with a wider audience. Now, as a prominent contributor to a leading online food and gastronomy news platform, Kate explores a wide array of topics, including restaurant reviews, recipe development, and the latest trends in food and dining.
Kate’s writing is distinguished by her ability to transport readers to the heart of the dining experience, whether she’s describing the subtle notes of a rare wine or the vibrant atmosphere of a street food market in Southeast Asia. Her reviews are honest and insightful, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the world’s culinary delights.
Beyond reviews, Kate is passionate about sustainable eating practices and often features articles on farm-to-table dining, organic farming, and ethical food sourcing. Her features on international cuisines and culinary traditions aim not only to educate her audience but also to inspire them to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
Kate’s engaging writing style, combined with her extensive knowledge of the culinary world, has made her a favorite among food lovers. Whether her readers are experienced chefs or home cooks looking to broaden their culinary horizons, Kate provides valuable insights and inspiration to elevate their food experiences.
In addition to her writing, Kate regularly hosts online cooking classes and workshops, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm for cooking with participants eager to learn. Her commitment to exploring and celebrating the world of food has established her as a respected voice in the gastronomy category, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of food.