Slicers

There are a number of tools specifically designed to cut food into neat, even slices.

Mandoline

This kitchen utensil is used to slice firm, crisp foods such as fruit and vegetables quickly and precisely. It consists of two flat working surfaces, one of which can be adjusted downward from the other. A razor sharp blade is mounted on the fixed surface, whilst the food is placed on the lower, adjustable surface. The mandoline is held firmly in place with one hand, then the other hand moves the food backwards and forwards over the blade to cut thin, precise slices. One of the advantages of using a mandoline is that the slices are uniform in thickness, which is important when cooking.

Mandolines should be cleaned with a brush, then rinsed and dried quickly to preserve the sharp cutting edge of their blades.

Cheese Slicer

Cheese slicers are used to cut semi-hard cheeses, such as Edam and Samsoe, into very thin slices.

Cheese Knife

A cheese knife has a curved blade with a forked or double-pointed end that is used for picking up slices and wedges neatly.

Egg Slicer

An egg slicer is used to slice peeled, hard-boiled eggs quickly and evenly displacing or crumbling the yolk. It consists of a slotted dish for holding the egg and a hinged plate of wires or blades that are closed to perform the slicing action. Though primarily used for eggs, this instrument may also be used to slice soft fruits and vegetables uniformly, for example, mushrooms or strawberries.