How to best sharpen a Japanese knife
To sharpen a Japanese knife, you can follow various methods using different tools.
Whetstone Method: The most preferred method by professional chefs is using a whetstone to sharpen Japanese knives . Here’s a step-by-step process:a. Prepare your whetstone: Soak the whetstone in water for the recommended time as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This step ensures proper lubrication during the sharpening process.
Hold the knife correctly: Grip the handle firmly and place your index finger on the spine of the blade for stability.
Determine the sharpening angle: Finding the correct sharpening angle is crucial. For most Japanese knives, the angle ranges between 15 to 20 degrees. You can use a sharpening guide or visually estimate the angle.
Sharpening motion: Starting from the base of the blade, position the knife on the whetstone at the chosen angle. Apply moderate pressure and move the knife in a sweeping motion towards the tip, maintaining a consistent angle.
Repeat the process: Continue the sharpening motion, alternating sides after each stroke. Aim for an equal number of strokes on both sides to maintain balance.
Test the sharpness: After sharpening, test the sharpness of the knife by gently slicing through a piece of paper or performing the tomato test.
Honing Rod Method: Using a honing rod is a good option for maintaining Japanese knives between professional sharpenings or as a temporary solution until you can use sharpening stones. Here’s a brief overview of the process:a. Hold the knife and rod: Grip the handle of the knife firmly. Place the honing rod upright on a stable surface, holding it with your non-dominant hand.
Position the knife: Hold the knife at a 15 to 20-degree angle against the honing rod, with the blade’s heel in contact with the rod.
Honing motion: Maintain the angle and apply light pressure as you move the knife down the length of the rod in a sweeping motion. Start from the base and continue to the tip of the blade.
Repeat the process: Repeat the honing motion on both sides of the blade, ensuring an equal number of strokes on each side.
Test the sharpness: Check the sharpness by performing the paper or tomato test, ensuring the knife slices smoothly without tearing.
Remember to always exercise caution while sharpening knives, as they are sharp and can cause injuries. It’s recommended to practice these methods with care or seek guidance from professionals if you’re unsure.
Last Updated on June 4, 2023