Have you ever wondered why people use different tools for cutting things in the kitchen? Why not just use the same pair of scissors for everything?
Well, that’s where kitchen shears come in. Even though they look similar to regular scissors, they have special features that make them perfect for cooking tasks.
In this article, we will explore the differences between kitchen shears and regular scissors, why you should have kitchen shears, and how to choose the right pair. Let’s get started!
What Are Kitchen Shears?
Kitchen shears are a type of heavy-duty scissors made for the kitchen. They have strong, sharp blades that can cut through different types of food, like meat, vegetables, and even bones.
Kitchen shears are designed to make cutting tasks easier, so you don’t have to struggle with a knife all the time. Many kitchen shears also have extra features like a built-in bottle opener, nutcracker, or even a screwdriver.
What Are Regular Scissors?
Regular scissors are the kind you probably use at school or at home for cutting paper, fabric, or string. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and perfect for small tasks.
But when it comes to cutting through tough items like chicken or thick vegetables, regular scissors just don’t work as well as kitchen shears. That’s because they are not designed to handle heavy-duty cutting.
Key Differences Between Kitchen Shears and Scissors
Now that we know what kitchen shears and scissors are, let’s look at the main differences:
Blade Design: Kitchen shears have sharp, thick blades, often with a serrated edge. This helps them grip and cut through slippery foods like chicken skin. Regular scissors have straight, thin blades made for cutting lighter materials like paper.
Functionality: Kitchen shears can do more than just cut. They can crack nuts, open bottles, and even cut herbs. Regular scissors are mainly used for simple cutting tasks and don’t have any extra features.
Ergonomics (Comfort): Kitchen shears usually have comfortable handles that make it easy to cut through tough foods without hurting your hands. Regular scissors may not be as comfortable to use for heavy-duty tasks.
Material: Kitchen shears are usually made from stainless steel. This makes them strong, durable, and safe to use with food. Regular scissors might be made from less durable materials, and they can rust if they get wet.
Ease of Cleaning: Kitchen shears are easier to clean because they often come apart, allowing you to wash every part separately. Regular scissors can be hard to clean if food gets stuck in the blades.
Why You Need Kitchen Shears (And Not Just Scissors) in Your Kitchen
Kitchen shears are like the superhero of kitchen tools. Imagine trying to cut a raw chicken into pieces using a small pair of school scissors – it would be hard, right?
Kitchen shears are strong enough to handle that kind of job. They can cut meat, vegetables, herbs, and even open food packages. Plus, they often have extra features, like a bottle opener, making them even more useful.
If regular scissors are like a small pocket knife, kitchen shears are more like a Swiss army knife. They can do so much more!
Can You Use Regular Scissors in the Kitchen?
Yes, you can use regular scissors in the kitchen, but it’s not always a good idea. For example, you might use them to open a bag of chips or cut some string.
But when it comes to food, regular scissors just aren’t built for the job. They can’t cut through bone or thick vegetables, and they might not be safe to use on food because they’re harder to clean.
Using regular scissors for food can also cause hygiene problems. Since they don’t come apart for cleaning, bacteria might stay on the blades and cause health risks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Shears
If you’re thinking about buying kitchen shears, here are some things to look for:
- Blade Material: Choose kitchen shears made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is strong, lasts a long time, and doesn’t rust easily.
- Comfort: Look for shears with handles that are comfortable to hold. Some even have soft rubber grips to make cutting easier.
- Versatility: Some kitchen shears come with extra features like a built-in bottle opener or nutcracker. This can be handy if you need to open bottles or crack nuts without getting another tool.
- Ease of Cleaning: Make sure the shears can be taken apart for easy cleaning. This will help you keep them safe and clean to use with food.
Maintenance Tips for Kitchen Shears and Scissors
To make sure your kitchen shears and scissors last a long time, you need to take care of them:
Keep Them Sharp: Dull blades can make cutting harder. You can sharpen your shears with a sharpener, or take them to a professional.
Clean Them After Use: Wash your kitchen shears right after you use them. This will keep them clean and safe for food. Dry them well to prevent rust.
Store Them Properly: Keep your shears and scissors in a safe place where they won’t get damaged. You can store them by hanging them on a hook or placing them in a drawer.
Conclusion
In the battle of kitchen shears vs. scissors, it’s clear that each has its own strengths. Regular scissors are great for small, light tasks like cutting paper or string.
But when it comes to cutting food, you need a tool that’s up to the job – and that’s where kitchen shears shine.
They are strong, versatile, and designed to make your cooking tasks easier. So if you don’t already have a pair, it might be time to get some kitchen shears for your kitchen toolbox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use kitchen shears for regular tasks outside the kitchen?
- Yes, you can use kitchen shears for tasks like cutting cardboard or opening packages, but it’s best to keep one pair just for food to avoid germs.
Are kitchen shears dishwasher-safe?
- Many kitchen shears are dishwasher-safe, but it’s a good idea to check the label. To keep them sharp, it’s often better to wash them by hand.
Can you sharpen kitchen shears?
- Yes, you can sharpen kitchen shears just like you would sharpen regular scissors. Some kitchen shears even have built-in sharpeners.
Do kitchen shears need to be oiled?
- Occasionally, adding a drop of oil to the pivot point (where the blades come together) can help keep them working smoothly.
What’s the best way to clean kitchen shears after cutting raw meat?
- After using kitchen shears to cut raw meat, wash them immediately in hot, soapy water. This helps remove any bacteria and keeps the blades clean.