Cooking is so demanding that it requires the necessary accessories to really keep up. Whether you just love cooking, or you have an established catering business. The most cut-out kitchen utensils are needed to make whatever you do in your kitchen a complete success; equipment that is accessible and durable. One of these utensils, that is necessary, and must be readily available, is the kitchen cutting board.
Making a decision on the best cutting board can be quite difficult. But the truth, however, is that wood is the best you can always settle for, of all the types of cutting boards (wood, plastic, and composite) you can get.
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Why Choose Wood
"But why would I want to choose wood?", you ask. Well, one reason is that it stands the test of time. They self-heal and don't scar like plastics. Professional chefs believe it is even more hygienic, because it absorbs and traps bacteria cells, and also hinders them from surviving on oxygen, which they invariably need to grow.
According to cuttingboard.com, wood provides the "best life for knives"; they will keep your knives sharp and strong. Having a wonderful wooden cutting board may also add color to your kitchen depending on the kind you buy, and make it beautiful and organized. Also, people attest to the fact that its large surface creates enough space for cutting and butchering.
After deciding on a wooden cutting board. The next thing to decide on is the best wood for cutting board. From Maple to Cherry, to Teak and so on. It can be quite difficult to make a decision on which to buy for your kitchen. Later, we shall discuss on the different types of wooden cutting boards, so that whenever you go shopping for one or two, you don't have to ask embarrassing and endless questions on which is the best wood for cutting board.
What to Look for in Wood for Cutting Board?
There are things you must look out for in wood for cutting boards whenever you go to the supermarket.
Hardness Rating
The first thing to do is to look out for the hardness rating of the wood. Make sure it is a wood that is hard but not too hard. Softwoods have larger pores which can be safe havens for bacteria.
However, be careful not to select a wood that is way too hard. A wood that is too hard may cause the surface of your board to dull quickly. The hardness of wood can be measured using the Janka hardness test. According to Karim.com, woods that weigh between 850 to 1600 are the best for the construction of cutting boards. So, keep this in mind whenever you are in the supermarket shopping for one.
Porosity
Another thing to check out for is the porosity of the wood. Like we mentioned earlier, bacteria sink into the wood so deeply. So, it is important to get a cutting board that will trap them in and makes it unable for them to reproduce so that they eventually die. Some types of wood have tight pores that are suitable for cutting boards. So, always check that that your wood is porous, but not too porous as well. Woods with high porosity have the tendency to absorb liquid and food in its pores. And this can cause bacteria to grow mold and cause wood warping, or stains on the cutting surface.
Size
Third, check for the size. It is good to have a large-sized cutting board, that has enough workspace. It is also not good to have one that is too large and heavy. A small one is also good, because it's movable and can fit in small compartments. But having the right size makes it easier and safer to cut.
You can purchase a wooden cutting board that is large enough to fit well into your dishwasher (Although it is better to hand wash your cutting board instead). You can also pick a reasonable cutting board size by placing your eight inches’ kitchen knife diagonally on the board, leaving at least one to two inches on either side of the knife. The average size that you can get is between 14" to 20", to make things easier.
End Grain, Edge Grain or Flat Grain
Edge-grain
End-grain
Flat-grain
You can also check for end grain, edge grain or flat grain, depending on your preference. The way your board looks, feels and how long it lasts depends on the decision you make on these.
Edge Grain
Edge grain cutting boards are made by fusing cut wooden boards such that the side edges surface of the boards is level and face up. Their heaviness is similar to butcher-block countertops making them stable during cutting. However, because of the hardness of the edge-grain, its surface can begin to scar after a long-term usage. But to keep them looking good, you can follow through simple care instructions.
The durability of the surface can also cause knives to dull faster than end grain. Edge-grains are considerably cheaper due to the fact that they are easier to make and are typically thinner and easier to store.
End Grain
End grain cutting boards are almost the same as edge-grain cutting boards, but not exactly the same. They are constructed in the same manner, except for few additional steps to follow through. Edge-grains are made by gluing cut wooden boards together in such a way that short ends surface are level and face up. Unlike edge-grain, the surface of the end-grain looks like a checkerboard and is softer than the edge-grain. It doesn't dull your knife, and also allows a strong grip for cutting. The open wood-cell structure of the cutting surface allows it to self-heal, and not to scar and scratch.
Flat Grain
Most wooden cutting boards are made of flat-grain. Flat-grain wood cutting boards, unlike the first two, are made with the grain of the wood running horizontally across the board. Flat-grain wood boards are even softer than end-grain boards. However, this softness can make the surface to weaken over time.
Toxicity
One very especially important thing to take note of when purchasing a wood cutting board is toxicity. It is not all the woods that are safe for use in the kitchen. Naturally, some woods have high toxicity, while some others toxicity is caused by the accumulation of dust and dirt in the course of construction. Avoid woods that are both toxic and exotic, like Purpleheart. Woods that produce edible leaves, or sap, fruits, and nuts are considered safe.
Best Wood for Cutting Board
Maple
Of all the options of wood cutting board, Maple is by far the most common. You will find it almost in every kitchen you go into. Its durability makes for a hard surface which is good for cutting and butchering.
Maple also has smaller and tighter pores that can hinder the growth of bacteria. The disappointment, however, is that, maples are more prone to scratches and scars. They can also dull your knives because of their hard surface. But aside from these, they are very affordable, and a good match for your kitchen.
John Boos Block R03 Maple Wood Cutting Board
If you operate a commercial kitchen, John Boos Block R03 Maple Wood Cutting Board would be the best option for your busy kitchen. It is National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified, and has been the first choice of many professional chefs and kitchens around the world. Constructed with a thickness of 1.5" and a surface that is so durable, making it very difficult for even sharp knives to mar. This board is designed with integrated handle grips that makes it easy for users to lift, move and clean. It is also reversible, with flat and spacious ends for convenient cutting.
One amazing fact is that it is handcrafted in Effingham, Illinois, USA, from sustainably harvested hardwoods in North America. Amazing right? Along with the board also comes a natural finish oil to make it last a lifetime, with a year warranty, and a guarantee against defects during the course of construction. Now, you know what to get whenever you want to shop for kitchen utensils.
Michigan Maple End Grain Chopping Block
Another thing you might want to add to your cart is Michigan Maple End Grain Chopping Block. This cutting board is constructed from end-grain; radius top and bottom, which adds beauty to your kitchen. This board does last a lifetime with an appropriate size and hardiness that is suitable for most food preparations. It comes with finish rubbed oil and is also Certified by National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).
Cherry
If you are looking to buy a soft wood cutting board, you might want to opt for a Cherry. If you also like your kitchen bright and colorful, it can also be a good option. It is self-healing and significantly heavy, making it stable for cutting. Aside from all these, Cherry is way too soft, compared to the other kinds of woods. It also wears quickly after a long-term use. It can also be quite expensive too.
John Boos Block CHY-R01 Cherry Wood Cutting Board
This board measures 1.5 inches thick. It is a combination of beauty, durability and functionality. Its modern linear pattern is as a result of sleek edge grain construction. Not just like any other kinds of cutting boards, it has a multifunctional structure, with reversible ends suitable for cutting. It also has integrated handle grips which makes moving, lifting and cleaning so convenient. It passes food safety standards and comes with food safe natural oil finish to help protect the wood for a lifetime. It's verified as the best choice for home as well as commercial kitchens.
Walnut
Just like Maple, Walnut is also a popular, reversible and water resistant wood. If you are a professional chef and you don't have the time to always wash your board immediately after use, you might want to choose Walnut. It chokes bacteria and kills them. It is nice on the knife, so you don't have to worry about your knife dulling faster. Walnut wood also shrinks lesser than Maples and doesn't require regular conditioning. It is also beautiful and colorful like the Cherry, with a range of light and dark colors, from Yellow to Chocolate.
Unlike the Maple and Cherry, it takes time to dent and scar. Although it is relatively expensive, it is definitely worth the price. You might want to add it into your shopping list.
Virginia Boys Kitchens Large Walnut Wood Cutting Board
If you are looking for a beautiful chocolate cutting board with rustic feel that you can lead stable on your countertop, Virginia Boys Kitchens Large Walnut Wood Cutting Board is your best choice. Made with first-classification, sustainably sourced Walnut Wood with high- precision drip groove around one-edge. It gives you a high-end rustic feel from the end grain appearance of seasoned Walnut. Its surface is easy on the knife, with a sturdy and durable structure suitable for cutting.
Depending on your preference, the board is available in various sizes; ranging from small to large. What's better than having a cutting board with a reversible design, with both ends that can function for either cutting and butchering.
Have you been searching for a board that comes in a natural, raw and customizable state, allowing you to apply, personally, any of your preferred finishing wax for a desired colorful and bright scenery to your kitchen? This board is your best option. As a matter of fact this board can also function as a serving board. You have something to entertain guests, family and friends with.
Acacia
Also known as Thorntree, is a natural wood that has gained popularity. Like the Maple and Walnut, Acacia is less porous and water resistant. It also has natural special anti-bacteria fighting properties. It is rich in natural oils that makes it to absorb less water. Like the Maple, it is very strong and takes time to scar than Cherry and Walnut. Acacia wood is also significantly affordable despite the fact that it is sustainably grown and imported from India.
Sonder Los Angeles Thick Acacia Wood Cutting Board
Sonder Los Angeles Thick Acacia Wood Cutting Board is designed with a reversible and multifunctional feature. It is made of sustainably grown Acacia Wood; popular for the crystal and luster pattern. Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and harvested naturally according to all forestry standards, no need to worry about its toxicity.
It is 1.5" thick. This thickness makes it stable and convenient for cutting, especially in busy situations. It is designed with a recessed crack well around the edges for convenient serving and cutting. Also, it has deep juice grooves, hindering liquid for running of the board and wasting. Absolutely perfect for cutting fruits, vegetables, and meats of all kinds.
Bamboo
This type of wood is what many environmentalists go for. It is affordable, sustainable and from a renewable resource. It is easy to grow. Just like regular wood, it is dense and water resistant and sanitary. Naturally, it appears light and can continue look clean and smooth after a long-term usage. It has been said to be 19% harder than the Maple.
Royal Craft Wood Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
Royal Craft Wood Organic Bamboo Cutting Board with Juice Groove is the best match for your kitchen; home or professional. This board has a gorgeous, convenient and multifunctional design, with a flat large surface that makes cutting easier. Having one in your kitchen creates a classy kitchen environment. It constructed from 100% Bamboo that doesn't dull knives. The board is professionally made with high-quality, durable and thick edge-grain Bamboo. Add this also to your shopping cart.
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