Finding An Appropriate Butcher Block
A quality butcher block is a great addition to any modern kitchen and is an inexpensive way to get the most from your cooking knives and kitchen counters. Handy blocks can be purchased in a several different styles and sizes that will complement any kitchen motif.
Thick strips of hardwood are glued together to give the block a cutting surface that is perfectly smooth and durable. The most popular type of cutting block has an end grain surface. This distinctive design will permit the knife blades to pass between individual wood fibers during the act of chopping. When the knife leaves the surface, the fibers return to their original position without leaving a nick or cut. Cooking knives will stay sharper longer when used on an end grain surface.
This makes for a safer place to prepare food because nicks and cuts can easily harbor bacteria and compromise the food. An uneven surface is also dangerous for the user because the knife blade can catch on the imperfection and skid out of control.
Butcher block may be used to replace any part of an existing counter. If you decide to do this, you should choose a location that is as far as possible from the dishwasher or sink to avoid gradual water damage to the wood.
If you need more work space than you already have, you can look at buying a kitchen island. Options include islands made with wheels or without depending on whether you need something that is mobile. When not in use, an island with wheels can be placed wherever it is most convenient to work. When you are done, just push it out of the way into a corner of the room or tuck in into a pantry closet.
Some of the large islands will have slatted shelves below the surface. Others are designed with extra drawers and cabinets to give you a place to store various kitchen gadgets.
A quality butcher block can greatly improve your efficiency in the kitchen while at the same time prolonging the life of your favorite kitchen knives. Review the various options and find the one that is right for you.
When you are looking for a unique and distinctive butcher block, you will find it fast and easy! The beautiful butcher block pieces you can find now will give your kitchen the added beauty and function you need.
