The Buyer's Guide to Chopping Boards

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A good chopping board is a kitchen essential for all manner of tasks, from finely slicing garlic to dicing onions to carving joints of beef. Using multiple cutting boards for different tasks helps prevent cross-contamination and caters to various food preparation needs. As well as using a chopping board to cut, slice and dice, you can use a wooden chopping board to serve cheese and charcuterie, just make sure it’s separate from the large chopping board that you use for raw ingredients!

What are the different types of chopping boards?

There are a variety of chopping boards depending on what you’re preparing, the space you have and the style you’re after.

• If your kitchen is compact or you don’t like lifting things, choose smaller chopping boards,

• if you like pale wood, opt for a beech board, and

• if you’re after a lightweight option, pick the Paulownia chopping board - also a great choice for keeping knives sharp. Bamboo cutting boards are also lightweight and easy to clean, making them a convenient choice.

• And end-grain chopping board may also help to keep the board looking good for longer, and your knives in great condition.

Composite cutting boards offer the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability of composite material and low maintenance of plastic, making them a versatile choice for any kitchen.

Materials to Consider: Selecting the right cutting board materials is crucial to ensure food safety and optimal cutting meat cooking results.

Materials to Consider

When it comes to choosing a chopping board, the material is a crucial factor to consider. Different and various cutting board materials have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common materials used for chopping boards:

• Wooden Chopping Boards: Wooden chopping boards are a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike. They are durable, gentle on knives, and can be made from sustainable sources. However, they do require regular maintenance, such as oiling with food grade mineral oil, to prevent cracking and drying out. Wooden chopping boards also add a touch of natural elegance to any kitchen.

• Plastic Chopping Boards: Plastic chopping boards are lightweight, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches. They are often dishwasher safe, making them a convenient option for busy kitchens. However, they can be prone to harboring bacteria if not cleaned properly and may not be as durable as other materials over time.

• Bamboo Chopping Boards: Bamboo chopping boards are an eco-friendly choice, as bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource. They are lightweight, resistant to scratches, and gentle on knives. Bamboo chopping boards require minimal maintenance, making them a practical option for everyday use.

• Glass Chopping Boards: Glass chopping boards are non-porous, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches. They are also visually appealing and can add a modern touch to your kitchen. However, they can be prone to breaking and may not be suitable for heavy-duty use, as they can dull knives more quickly than other materials.

• Composite Chopping Boards: Composite chopping boards are made from a combination of materials, such as wood and plastic. They offer a durable and low-maintenance option for chopping boards, combining the best features of both materials. Composite boards are often dishwasher safe and resistant to warping and cracking.

Features to Look for in a Chopping Board

When choosing a chopping board, there are two best boards with several features to consider to ensure it meets your needs:

• Size and Shape: The size and shape of a chopping board can greatly impact its functionality. A larger chopping board provides ample space for preparing large meals, but it may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. Conversely, a smaller chopping board is easier to store and handle but may not offer enough space for extensive meal prep. Consider a chopping board with a non-slip bottom to prevent it from slipping on the countertop.

• Juice Groove: A juice groove is a handy feature that can catch liquids from fruits, vegetables, and meats, preventing them from spilling onto your countertop. This feature is particularly useful when carving meats or chopping juicy produce.

• Nonslip Grip: A nonslip grip can help keep the chopping board stable on your countertop, making it safer and easier to chop and slice ingredients. Look for boards with rubber feet or textured surfaces to enhance stability.

• Easy Cleaning: Choose a chopping board with a smooth surface that is easy to clean and resistant to scratches. This will help maintain hygiene and prolong the life of the board. Some materials, like plastic and composite, are dishwasher safe, adding to their convenience.

Which is the best chopping board to buy?

Best lightweight chopping board

The Paulownia chopping board is a favourite in Japan, and is so popular that very few are available for export. It is unusually lightweight and so is easy to maneuver, and the surface edge grain board is the perfect combination of hard and soft for a fantastic cutting surface that keeps knives sharp as long as possible. No more worrying about lugging your heavy chopping board to the sink for a clean, you’ll barely even notice that you’re carrying this one when moving it about.

Best chopping board for everyday use

This beech wood chopping board is a great everyday kitchen staple. In elegant light wood, it will look like a classic in almost one corner of any kitchen. And the cut-away indents at either end give an easy handhold for moving it about. You can also buy a slightly larger 52cm board if you need more chopping surface.

Best chopping board for your knives

This Teakhaus end grain chopping board looks stunning and cutting into end-grain wood will keep your knives sharp. The boards are loved by America’s Test Kitchen over in the US, and are one of our most popular new arrivals. A wooden cutting and best large chopping board like this also helps maintain knife sharpness over time.

Best carving board for carving meat meat

Every carnivore needs a good sized carving and serving board for serving large joints of meat. And you always want it to have a good sized indent around the edge to catch any juices. This ash board blends excellent German cookware quality with a great price. For large cutting jobs, a heavy duty cutting board offers durability and a non-skid surface, making it ideal for handling big pieces of meat.

Best chopping board for herbs

The Natural Elements acacia wood hachoir set makes it easy to finely chop fresh herbs, garlic, chillies and onions to release their full flavours and aromas - ideal for making fresh pesto and spice pastes. The hachoir, or mezzaluna, has two blades to quickly dice through ingredients.

Best chopping board for garlic

Getting garlic odours out of your chopping board can be difficult. With a dedicated garlic cutting board though, you can make sure that all your other ingredients stay free of unwanted hints of garlic! This handy compact chopping board is ideal for strong flavoured ingredients.

Hygiene and Safety Considerations

Hygiene and safety are crucial considerations when it comes to chopping plastic cutting boards. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Cleanliness: Always clean your chopping board thoroughly after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria. Use hot, soapy water and a scrub brush to remove food particles and residues. For wooden chopping boards, avoid soaking them in water to prevent warping.

• Sanitizing: Regularly sanitize your chopping board to keep it free from harmful microorganisms. You can use a solution of one part vinegar to four parts water or a mild bleach solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow the board to air dry completely.

• Cross-Contamination: To prevent cross-contamination, use separate chopping boards for raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Consider color-coded boards to easily distinguish between them. This practice helps keep your food safe and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.

• Knife Safety: Always use a sharp knife and cut away from your body to prevent accidents. A stable chopping board with a nonslip grip will also help keep your cutting surface secure, reducing the risk of slips and cuts.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of a chopping board can affect its functionality and usability. Here are some tips to make larger board consider:

• Large Chopping Boards: Large chopping boards are ideal for preparing big meals and handling large ingredients. They provide ample space for chopping, slicing, and dicing, making meal prep more efficient. However, they may not be suitable for smaller kitchens with limited counter space.

• Small Chopping Boards: Small chopping boards are perfect for quick tasks and smaller kitchens. They are easy to store and handle, making them a convenient option for everyday use. However, they may not provide enough space for extensive meal prep.

• Rectangular Chopping Boards: Rectangular chopping boards offer a large surface area for chopping and slicing ingredients. They are versatile and can accommodate a variety of tasks, from cutting vegetables to carving meats.

• Round Chopping Boards: Round chopping boards can be a stylish addition to your kitchen and are great for chopping and slicing smaller ingredients. However, they may not provide enough space for larger tasks and can be less practical for extensive meal prep.

How should I care for my chopping board with food grade mineral oil?

A wooden chopping board quickly becomes a kitchen essential, but often they can start to look a little tired and old before their time. Here are a couple of tips for caring for your best chopping and best cutting boards now, but click here to read our in depth guide to looking after your chopping board. Regular maintenance is crucial for wooden cutting boards to extend their lifespan.

• Don’t leave your chopping board in water for too long, and ensure that it is completely dry before storing.

• Wash your chopping board gently with a cloth and a mild detergent for a perfect finish.

What is the best wood for a cutting board?

Wood is an ideal material for chopping boards as they are practical, durable and look great, too. Wooden boards are not only durable but also offer aesthetic appeal, making them perfect for both culinary and serving purposes. When it comes to choosing the wood, a lot of it depends on the style you’re after. Beech wooden chopping boards have a slightly orange hue, while Paulownia wood is lighter, with grey undertones.

If you’re a more accident prone cook, Paulownia wooden chopping boards are a good choice as they have a great non-slip surface, so you can be safer and more efficient in the kitchen.

Tips for Chopping and Slicing

Here are some tips for chopping and slicing ingredients safely and efficiently:

• Use a Sharp Knife: Always use a sharp knife to prevent accidents and make chopping and slicing easier. A dull knife requires more force and can slip, increasing the risk of injury.

• Cut Away from Your Body: Always cut away from your body to prevent accidents. This practice helps you maintain control over the knife and reduces the risk of cuts.

• Use a Stable Chopping Board: Ensure your chopping board is stable and secure on the countertop. A nonslip grip or rubber feet can help keep the board in place, making it safer to use.

• Chop and Slice on a Flat Surface: Always chop and slice ingredients on a flat surface to prevent accidents and make the task easier. A flat surface provides better control and stability, allowing for more precise cuts.

By considering these factors and tips, you can choose the best chopping board set for your kitchen and ensure safe and efficient meal preparation.

Shop all chopping boards here & learn how to look after your chopping board here