Nakiri Knives

Nakiri Knives – The Vegetable Specialist

If you cook a lot of vegetables, a nakiri is a joy to use. Its flat edge and tall blade slice cleanly through produce in one stroke.

It is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife, and a favourite with home cooks who eat plenty of plants.

What is a nakiri knife?

A nakiri has a rectangular blade with a flat edge and a squared-off tip. The flat edge meets the board along its whole length, so every cut goes all the way through.

Why choose nakiri knives?

• Clean cuts: no tail or half-cut pieces.
• Fast chopping: the tall blade guides your knuckles and speeds up prep.
• Thin slicing: great for cabbage, cucumber and carrots.
• Easy to use: simple up-and-down motion.

How to choose the right knife

Blade length. 16–18cm is standard.

Height. A tall blade gives knuckle clearance.

Weight. Lighter knives are nimble, heavier ones add power.

Compare options. Not sure? See our Santoku Knives.

How to use it

1. Push the blade straight down and forwards, rather than rocking.
2. Keep your fingers curled and use your knuckles as a guide.
3. Use it for vegetables only, not bones or frozen food.

Caring for your knife

• Hand wash and dry, and avoid hard boards that can chip fine edges.
• Avoid the dishwasher, which can dull the edge and damage handles.
• Store it safely in a knife storage solution such as a block, magnetic strip or sheath.
• Use a wooden or bamboo board. See our cutting and cheese boards.

Explore more from our full knife range, including Santoku Knives, Japanese Knives and Chef’s Knives. Keep the edge in top condition with our sharpening tools and our free Kitchen Knife Sharpening Guide.

Nakiri Knives FAQs

What is a nakiri used for?
Chopping and slicing vegetables.

Nakiri or santoku, which is better?
A nakiri is the specialist for vegetables. A santoku is a more versatile all-rounder.

Can I use a nakiri for meat?
It is not designed for it. Use a santoku or chef’s knife.

Is a nakiri a vegetable knife?
Yes. ‘Nakiri’ means vegetable cutter in Japanese