master-cooks | You're Probably Slicing Your Chives Wrong

When it comes to slicing chives, many home cooks might be inadvertently compromising the herb's delicate flavor and texture. Chives are slender, green stalks often used as a garnish or a subtle addition to various dishes, but slicing them correctly is crucial to unlocking their full potential. The most common mistake is using a dull knife, which crushes rather than cleanly cuts the chives, releasing their juices and diminishing their vibrant taste. A sharp knife is essential for achieving a clean, precise cut. Additionally, the technique of slicing plays a significant role. Instead of hacking away at the chives with a straight downward motion, it's more effective to use a gentle, rocking motion to glide the knife through the stalks. This technique maintains the integrity of the chives and ensures even slices. It's also important to pay attention to the cut's thickness; thinner slices are often preferable as they distribute more evenly in dishes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Properly sliced chives can elevate a dish with their mild onion-like taste and bright green color, making them a favorite among chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike.

How to use the back-slice method for chives

Start by taking your chef's knife and ensuring that the blade is extremely sharp. Place the chives on a sturdy cutting board and arrange them neatly. To prevent the herbs from scattering, you can secure them into a bundle with a rubber band. Alternatively, you can fold a damp paper towel into a strip and wrap it around the chives to keep them together.

To chop the chives using the back-slice technique, hold the knife in your dominant hand and glide the blade through the bundle from front to back (toward yourself). After slicing through the chives, return the knife to the front and repeat the motion until you’ve chopped all the herbs. Always keep your nondominant hand in a claw position, with fingers tucked in, to maintain a firm grip on the chives. This technique is also recommended by Anthony Bourdain for safely slicing onions and avoiding injuries.

In addition to the back-slice method, you can use the traditional slicing technique, which involves a forward motion with the knife. This is a common cutting method for delicate ingredients to prevent bruising. Lastly, using kitchen shears is another effective way to cut chives. Just make sure the scissors are sharp and snip the leaves from the top.

You're Probably Slicing Your Chives Wrong

How to use the back-slice method for chives

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