Peppered Leopard  
 

"The Cutting Edge"—The Word for Today is

KNIFE

 
Pep Points

Please, please, puleeze:
Make sure that mom or dad shows you how to use a knife, and let them cut and chop until you have become quite comfortable working with a knife. Let mom or dad help you find a knife that is just your size. It shouldn't be too big or too small and it should feel comfortable and balanced in your hand. Once you have found a good knife it will become your favorite personal tool!

Okay, here is what you need to know:
The knife is an important utensil. It is used for cutting, chopping and slicing all the ingredients necessary for a recipe.

knives

Knives come in many different sizes. But if you are just starting out, you should work with one of two small knives: the paring knife or the serrated knife. The paring knife has a short, straight edge for a cutting blade while the serrated knife has a wavy cutting blade. I prefer you use the serrated one because it doesn't slip off as easily, but straight-edged knives are better for chopping.

There are two important things you will need to do while using your knife.

  • 1) Always cut away from your body with the sharp edge facing away from you.
  • 2) If you are chopping food, go very slowly and hold the food with your fingers curled under.

Oh, I almost forgot, always use a cutting board. Sharp knives can cut into a kitchen counter or table. Their slick surface can even make the knife slip while you are cutting. A wooden or plastic cutting board is the best way to go.

If you have never used a knife before, get mom or dad show you how it is done. I started with a plastic one and practiced on something soft like a banana or a tomato until I got the hang of it. And always remember to keep the blade away from you and away from other people. Are you ready? Then it's time for a party at the Peppered Leopard's house. Let's go!

 

Pep's Safety Tip:

knives

When it's time
To use a knife.
Here is something
You should always do.
When you're going to
Chop, or slice, or dice,
Be sure to face
The blade away from you.

 

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The Peppered Leopard is Copyright © 1995-2006 Jim Keeshen Productions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 
 
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Table of Contents

Part I: Cooking Together:
The Wisdom of 400 Families

Part II: Putting the Meal Together—Together!

Part III: Cooking 101:
A Handbook for Parents
& Young Chefs

Part IV: Recipes

Part V: Tips In Tens