When it comes to preparing and serving steak, having the right tools and equipment is crucial for achieving the perfect meal. One such tool is the cutting board, which plays an important role in ensuring the quality of the meat remains intact during the carving process. Choosing the right cutting board for meat can be overwhelming, given the variety of options available in the market. However, if you're looking for a durable and practical option, a wood cutting board could be the answer.
In particular, walnut wood cutting boards are often regarded as the best cutting boards for serving steak. Not only do they provide an aesthetically pleasing look, but they also offer durability and resistance to wear and tear. They also have natural antibacterial properties that make them a more hygienic option for food preparation.
In this article, we will delve deeper into why walnut wood carving boards are the best choice for serving steak, while also exploring other cutting board options and why they may not be a good fit. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, choosing the right cutting board is an essential step towards achieving a deliciously prepared steak.
Reasons Why Walnut Wood Cutting Board is the Best Cutting Board for Meat
Not only for serving, but walnut wood cutting boards are also the best cutting board option for meat cutting. Walnut wood is a durable hardwood that is often used in furniture making and cabinetry. It is renowned for its beautiful color, texture, and durability, making it a popular choice for wooden cutting boards.
The process of making a walnut wood cutting board involves selecting the best quality wood, milling it to the desired size, and then sanding it to create a smooth, even cutting surface. The wood is then finished with food-grade mineral oil to create a protective layer that helps to repel water and prevent bacterial growth.
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the main reasons why walnut wood cutting boards are the best for meat cutting is their aesthetic appeal. The rich, dark color of the wood provides an elegant backdrop for displaying and carving meats. Additionally, the wood's natural grain patterns and unique markings make each board a work of art in its own right.
Non-Slip
Another reason why walnut wood cutting boards are an excellent choice is that they provide a non-slip surface (due to the weight) that keeps the board in place during use. This is especially important when working with larger cuts of meat, as it helps to prevent the board from sliding around and causing accidents.
Additionally you can purchase some rubber feet to give you some extra stability, but you will compromise one side of the board, so choose wisely.
Juice Groove
The juice groove on the board's surface is another beneficial feature that keeps the meat's juices from spilling onto the countertop or table. This also makes it easier to collect and reuse the meat juices when making gravies or sauces.
Eco-Friendly Option
Additionally, using a wooden cutting board, especially a walnut wood one, is an eco-friendly option compared to plastic cutting boards that end up in landfills. Wooden boards are biodegradable and can be recycled or repurposed.
Gentle on Knives
Finally, a walnut wood cutting board is gentle on knives, preserving their sharpness and preventing them from dulling quickly. This is because the wood's natural fibers are less abrasive than plastic, which can cause microscopic damage to knife blades over time.
Overall, a walnut wood cutting board is the best wood option for meat cutting, providing an aesthetically pleasing, non-slip surface with a juice groove, eco-friendly option, and gentle on knives. It is an excellent choice for use as a chopping board, cutting surface, charcuterie board, or simply to keep the board looking new.
Other Cutting Board Options
While walnut wood cutting boards are the best option for serving steak, other cutting board materials do exist. However, they may not be the best fit for this particular use.
Plastic
Firstly, plastic cutting boards are commonly used in commercial kitchens as they are inexpensive and easy to clean. However, plastic boards tend to show signs of wear and tear quickly and develop deep grooves where bacteria can accumulate, making them unsuitable for cutting meat. Additionally, while plastic is ideal for raw meat, it is not the best option for serving as it tends to be slippery, making it difficult to carve meat accurately.
Composite
Composite cutting boards are made from a mix of materials, such as wood fibers and resins, to create a durable and long-lasting surface. They are often dishwasher safe and have non-slip features, making them a popular choice for home use. However, composite boards tend to be less gentle on knives and can dull blades more quickly than other materials.
Bamboo
Bamboo cutting boards are a popular eco-friendly option as bamboo is a sustainable and renewable resource. They are also lightweight and have natural antibacterial properties. However, bamboo boards tend to be harder than other materials, making them less gentle on knives, and they may not be suitable for cutting poultry due to their porous nature.
While plastic, composite, and bamboo cutting boards may have their advantages, they are not the best options for serving steak. Plastic boards tend to be slippery, while composite and bamboo boards can be harsh on knives, and they may not be the best option for cutting poultry.
A high-quality wood board, such as a walnut wood cutting board, is the ideal choice for carving and serving steak due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and gentle surface. Even the best plastic cutting board cannot compare to the unique features and benefits of a high-quality wooden board, including the juice groove and the ability to carve meat accurately on any side of the board.
Factors to Consider When Choosing A Cutting Board
Choosing the right cutting board for your kitchen can be a daunting task, given the variety of materials and designs available in the market. Factors such as food safety, durability, ease of maintenance, and cost are all important considerations when selecting a cutting board. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a cutting board:
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Material: The most common materials for cutting boards are wood, plastic, and bamboo. Wooden boards are durable, gentle on knives, and have natural antibacterial properties. Plastic boards are affordable and easy to clean, but tend to show signs of wear and tear quickly. Bamboo boards are eco-friendly and lightweight, but may be too hard for some knives.
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Size: The size of your cutting board depends on your needs and preferences. A larger board provides more space for cutting, while a smaller board is more portable and easier to store.
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Thickness: A thicker cutting board is generally more durable and provides a stable surface for cutting. However, a thinner board may be more lightweight and easier to maneuver.
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Design: Cutting boards come in various designs, including end-grain, edge-grain, and composite. End-grain boards are more durable and gentle on knives, while edge-grain boards tend to be less expensive. Composite boards are made from a mix of materials and are often dishwasher safe.
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Maintenance: Some cutting boards require more maintenance than others. Wooden boards require regular oiling to maintain their natural beauty and prevent bacterial growth. Plastic boards can be washed in the dishwasher, but may need to be replaced more frequently due to signs of wear and tear.
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Food safety: It is important to choose a cutting board that is safe for food preparation. Wooden boards have natural antibacterial properties, while plastic boards can be sanitized in the dishwasher. It is also important to have separate cutting boards for different types of food, such as meat, vegetables, and poultry.
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Cost: Cutting boards come in a range of prices, from affordable plastic boards to high-end wooden boards. Consider your budget and choose a cutting board that provides the features and durability you need at a price point you are comfortable with.
The Mevell Meat Cutting Board Difference
If you're looking for a high-quality walnut wood cutting board for serving steak, look no further than Mevell. We offer a range of walnut wood cutting boards in various sizes and styles to suit any need.
One popular option is our 18X12X1.5'' End Grain Walnut Cutting Board with Handles. This board is made from high-quality walnut wood and features an end-grain construction that is durable and gentle on knives. The addition of handles makes it easy to transport and store, while the large size is perfect for serving steak and other meats.
Another great option is the 18X12X1.5'' End Grain Walnut Cutting Board with Juice Grooves and Handles. This board includes all the features of the first board, with the added benefit of juice grooves to collect meat juices and prevent spills.
For those looking for a smaller board, we also offer the Edge Grain Walnut Cutting Board with Juice Grooves and Handles, measuring 12x8x0.75''. Despite its smaller size, this board is still perfect for serving steak and features the same high-quality construction and juice grooves as the larger boards.
One of the things that sets Mevell cutting boards apart is their gorgeous appearance. The rich, dark color of the walnut wood provides a beautiful backdrop for serving steak and adds an element of sophistication to any table setting. Additionally, the boards' juice grooves make them a practical choice for serving juicy meats without worrying about spills or messes.
Conclusion
Start your 2023 by investing in the best cutting board for your kitchen needs. Whether you are a home cook or a professional chef, having a high-quality cutting board can make a world of difference in your food preparation and presentation. Consider the factors discussed in this article, such as material, size, design, maintenance, food safety, and cost, when selecting a cutting board. Find the best cutting board that fits your budget and offers the features you need for your specific culinary endeavors.
If you're looking for a high-quality wooden cutting board, Mevell offers a range of options to suit your needs. Our walnut wood cutting boards are not only durable and practical but also aesthetically pleasing, making them a great choice for serving steak and other meats.
