The nakiri knife is a bit of a hidden gem in the kitchen. At first glance, its straight, flat-edged blade and rectangular shape might have you thinking it’s a small cleaver – but this unique tool is far more specialized. What is a Nakiri knife? It’s a Japanese vegetable knife designed with a thin, sharp edge that glides effortlessly through everything from delicate herbs to hearty root vegetables.
If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated with uneven slices or squashed tomatoes, the Nakiri might just be your new favorite. But don’t just take my word for it—let’s dive into the five best uses for a Nakiri knife and how it can transform your kitchen game.
What is a Nakiri Knife?
Ever tried slicing peppers for a stir-fry, only to end up with a string of half-attached pieces, like a line of paper dolls? That usually happens because curved blades don’t always cut cleanly through a vegetable’s peel. This is where the Nakiri shines. Thanks to its straight, flat edge, it makes full contact with the cutting board, giving you cleaner, more precise cuts every time.
Using a Nakiri does take a bit of practice, though. If you’re wondering how to use a Nakiri knife, it’s important to remember that unlike the rocking motion often used in Western cooking, the Nakiri works best when you slide it forward or backward. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll notice your knife skills improving almost effortlessly!
Another thing to love about the Nakiri is its weight and balance. Compared to a santoku or Gyuto of the same size, the Nakiri has a bit more heft at the front, making it feel like it does half the work for you. The more you use it, the more you’ll realize it’s not just a beautiful tool—it’s a vegetable-chopping powerhouse!
5 Best Uses for Nakiri Knife
So, why should any chef consider using a Nakiri knife for their vegetable prep? Well, this versatile knife has quite a few perks, here are the best uses for Nakiri knife that you should not sleep on,
Thin, Even Slices
One of the standout features of the Nakiri is its flat, thin blade, which makes it perfect for creating thin, even slices. If you’ve ever struggled to keep your cuts uniform, the nakiri’s design makes this task effortless.
Its flat edge makes full contact with the cutting board, allowing you to slice through vegetables with a consistent, straight motion, which is a huge plus when you’re decorating salads or making ribbon cuts that need to look just right.
Quick and Smooth Chopping
With a Nakiri, chopping is all about simplicity. Unlike curved blades, where you need to rock the knife back and forth or push and pull horizontally, the nakiri’s flat edge makes the chopping process straightforward. Just a simple up-and-down motion gets the job done.
Great for Delicate Vegetables
When working with delicate vegetables like tomatoes, herbs, or even leafy greens, you don’t want to crush them under the weight of a heavy knife. The nakiri's thin blade is gentle enough to slice through these fragile items without damaging them.
Unlike bulky, thicker blades that can easily bruise or squash softer produce, the Nakiri gives you the precision to handle even the most tender vegetables with care. This is especially important when presentation matters, like when preparing a beautiful summer salad or garnishing a dish with fine herbs.
Just the Right Length
Most Nakiri knives are 5-7 inches long, which is considered the sweet spot for a versatile kitchen knife. It’s long enough to handle larger vegetables like cabbages but still short enough to maintain control when working with smaller items like garlic or shallots.
Double Bevel for Straight Cuts
Unlike single-beveled knives, which are angled on just one side, Nakiri knives feature a double bevel—meaning both sides of the blade are sharpened. This is a big advantage when you need straight, precise cuts, as it keeps the knife balanced and helps ensure the blade moves evenly through whatever you’re cutting. Whether you’re right- or left-handed, the double bevel makes the knife easier to control, resulting in smoother, more accurate slices.
Full Blade Usability
One of the nakiri’s most practical design features is its lack of a pointed tip. Without that point, you get full access to the entire edge of the blade from tip to heel. This makes the Nakiri incredibly efficient, as you can use the whole knife without worrying about missing out on any cutting surface.
Some Nakiri Knife Recommendations
When it comes to choosing the right Nakiri knife for your kitchen, having a high-quality, well-balanced tool can make all the difference. Below are two Nakiri knives that combine Japanese craftsmanship with modern durability, perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen arsenal.
7" Nakiri Knife | KOI Series
If you’re looking for a visually stunning yet highly functional knife, the 7" Nakiri Knife from the KOI Series is a great choice. Its VG10 stainless steel blade is razor-sharp and durable, with a unique koi scale pattern that helps prevent food from sticking, making your slicing even smoother.
The camphorwood handle offers comfort and balance, perfect for everyday use. Plus, the knife comes in a custom wooden box with a leather sheath, making it ideal for storage or gifting.
Key features:
- VG10 stainless steel for durability and sharpness
- Koi scale pattern for non-stick cutting
- Comfortable, balanced wooden handle
- Includes gift box and sheath for protection
Nakiri Knife 440C Steel | Daimyo Series
For those seeking superior edge retention, the Nakiri Knife from the Daimyo Series is an excellent option. Made from 440C steel, this knife provides outstanding durability and corrosion resistance. Its scalpel-sharp edge cuts with precision, while the rosewood handle offers a balanced, comfortable grip.
Complete with a sheath and storage case, this knife blends traditional craftsmanship with modern performance.
Key features:
- 440C steel for long-lasting sharpness and corrosion resistance
- Precision edge honed to 13–15° for delicate cuts
- Elegant rosewood handle for comfort
- Comes with sheath and storage case
Wrapping Up!
Incorporating a Nakiri knife into your kitchen can truly change the way you prepare vegetables. Its unique design makes slicing, dicing, and chopping quicker, more precise, and even more enjoyable. From effortless cuts to improved efficiency, this versatile knife is a must-have for anyone serious about their kitchen tools.
Looking for the perfect Nakiri? Kyoku Knives offers the best collection of Nakiri knives and more, designed to enhance your cooking experience. Explore our range and find the ideal knife to upgrade your kitchen today!
