Why choose a wood cutting board for your kitchen?

Most of the professional kitchens still use color coded plastic boards : one for raw meat, another one for poultry, the green one for cutting vegetables. It makes sense to separate the type of food you would cut on a cutting board. But what about wood cutting boards ? What do professional chefs actually use for their cutting boards these days ?

In the world of home baking and fine pastry, the tools you use can significantly impact your culinary creations. Among these tools, the humble cutting board plays a pivotal role. Wood cutting boards, in particular, bring a touch of elegance and functionality to your kitchen. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic of your cooking space, but they also offer health benefits by avoiding the risks associated with plastic, such as microplastic ingestion. Let's explore why wood cutting boards are a favorite among baking enthusiasts and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.

The Benefits of Wood Cutting Boards

Wood cutting boards are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer several practical benefits:

• Durability: High-quality wood cutting boards can last for decades with proper care, making them a sustainable choice for your kitchen.

• Knife-Friendly: Wood is gentler on knife blades compared to harder surfaces like glass or stone, helping to maintain the sharpness of your knives.

• Natural Antimicrobial Properties: Certain types of wood have natural antimicrobial properties, making them hygienic choices for food preparation and reducing the risk of contamination.

Choosing the Best Wood for Your Cutting Board

When it comes to selecting the best wood for your cutting board, not all woods are created equal. Here are some of the top choices:

Teak: The Durable and Water-Resistant Option

Teak is an excellent choice for cutting boards, known for its durability and natural water resistance. With a Janka hardness rating of 1,155, teak is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for heavy use. Its natural oils make it resistant to water, which helps prevent warping and cracking. Teak also has natural antimicrobial properties, making it a safe and hygienic surface for food preparation. The beautiful golden-brown color of teak adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

Mahogany: The Rich and Beautiful Choice

Mahogany wood is renowned for its rich, reddish-brown color and fine grain, making it a visually stunning choice for cutting boards. With a Janka hardness rating of 900, it is slightly softer than teak but still durable enough for everyday use. Mahogany is gentle on knife edges and has natural antimicrobial properties, making it a practical and attractive choice for cutting boards. Its luxurious appearance makes it a standout piece in any kitchen.

Plastic or Wood Cutting Board?

When it comes to choosing between plastic and wood cutting boards, the health implications of microplastic ingestion make wood a clear winner:

• Health Risks of Plastic: Plastic cutting boards can release microplastics, especially when cut or scratched. These microplastics can find their way into your food and, ultimately, your body, posing potential health risks.

• Knife Care: Wood cutting boards are generally more forgiving on knife edges, helping to maintain the sharpness of your blades longer than plastic boards.

• Hygiene: While plastic boards can be dishwashed, wood cutting boards have natural antimicrobial properties that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, providing a safer surface for food preparation.

• Aesthetics: Wood cutting boards add a warm, natural touch to your kitchen that plastic boards simply can't match, enhancing the overall ambiance of your cooking space.

• Environmental Impact: Wood cutting boards, especially those made from sustainably sourced wood, are more eco-friendly than plastic alternatives, which contribute to environmental pollution.

By choosing wood over plastic, you not only elevate the look and feel of your kitchen but also make a healthier choice for you and your family.

Wood Cutting Boards as Serving Trays

Beyond their practical use in food preparation, wood cutting boards can also serve as elegant serving trays, adding a rustic charm to your table setting. A beautifully crafted wood cutting board large enough to hold an assortment of cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh fruits can become the centerpiece of your dining experience. Imagine presenting a selection of artisanal breads, fine pastries, or even a delectable breakfast spread on a wood cutting board round, which not only showcases your culinary creations but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your table. You can also use it as an elegant way to bring coffee to your customers and elevate the experience.

The natural warmth and texture of the wood complement any dining decor, making your meals feel even more special. By using wood cutting boards as serving trays, you avoid the potential health risks associated with plastic trays, such as microplastic ingestion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal with family, using a wood cutting board as a serving tray is a simple yet effective way to elevate your dining experience while making a healthier choice.

Caring for Your Wood Cutting Board

To ensure your wood cutting board remains in top condition, follow these care tips:

• Cleaning: Wash your cutting board with warm, soapy water after each use. Avoid soaking it in water to prevent warping. Dry it immediately after rincing it.

• Oiling: Regularly oil your cutting board with food-grade mineral oil to keep it hydrated and prevent cracking. This is a great way to maintian the quality of your wood cutting board over the years.

• Storage: Store your cutting board in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

Using baking soda and  lemon on your wood cutting board will remove any bad smell on your wood cutting board. Simply scrub with a real lemon over the baking soda and rince it.

If your wood chopping board is in a bad condition, you can use sand paper : start with the heavy one first to get the big suffs out. Then get another much finer sandpaper to smooth out. Then clean with water to remove the excess of dust and clean it lastly with a dry towel.

Conclusion

Wood cutting boards are a great addition to any kitchen, offering both practical benefits and aesthetic appeal. Even professional chefs are using it, mostly as a chopping board. By choosing wood over plastic, you not only enhance your food preparation experience but also make a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice. Whether you opt for a wood cutting board large enough for all your baking needs, a charming wood cutting board round for serving, or a versatile wood cutting board set, you're sure to appreciate the beauty and functionality these boards bring to your culinary adventures.