Cooking Lessons Knife Skills and Cuts 5

Question 1

Which part of the knife is the thick junction between the blade and the handle on a forged knife?

Accepted Answer

Bolster

Answer

The bolster is the thick band of metal where the blade meets the handle, adding balance and finger protection.

Question 2

What does 'full tang' mean in knife construction?

Accepted Answer

The blade metal extends through the entire length of the handle

Answer

A full tang means the blade steel runs the whole length of the handle, giving strength and balance.

Question 3

Which task is a paring knife best suited for?

Accepted Answer

Peeling and trimming small fruits and vegetables in hand

Answer

The short 3-4 inch blade of a paring knife excels at detailed in-hand work like peeling, trimming, and coring.

Question 4

You need to cut raw chicken and then vegetables for a salad. What is the correct practice?

Accepted Answer

Use separate boards and knives, or wash and sanitize them between tasks

Answer

Raw poultry can cross-contaminate ready-to-eat foods, so equipment must be swapped or washed and sanitized between tasks.

Question 5

What should you do if a knife falls off the counter?

Accepted Answer

Step back and let it fall — never try to catch it

Answer

Grabbing at a falling knife risks a severe cut; move your feet clear and pick it up after it lands.

Cooking Lessons Practice Test