If you've ever tried carving meat, you'll know it's difficult to keep the cuts straight and smooth. That is unless you're using an electrical knife.

"I would recommend that each household get one of these," quips Rapid True Value supervisor Camille McLeod who is showing Thursday Tech the electric knives the store carries.

"It's a nice equipment to have because regular knives go dull," she says, "and with the electric knife you don't have to worry that food presentation will be unsightly. it slices neatly."

McLeod adds that the device - mostly bought by caterers around this time of year - is easier to manoeuvre than regular knives since, "you don't have to apply lots of pressure but instead just depress the button".

The store presently carries Hamilton Beach and Proctor Silex models that retail for $3,897 - which comes with a meat fork in a sleek silver case - and $1,296 (plus tax) respectively.
Price aside, what should one look for when buying an electric knife?

"You'll want a knife with 100 watts of power or more and a long enough power cord to reach all parts of your kitchen," McLeod tells Thursday Tech, "A high-torque motor will allow you to cut through the thickest of meats."

McLeod outlines too that those electric knives that feature detachable blades are easiest to clean.

"Hand washing is recommended over dishwasher use," the young supervisor adds.

It's also useful, she says, to ensure that customers test the model before leaving the store since many brands carry electric knives with excessively noisy motors, which could detract from one's dining experience.

"We at Rapid True Value also caution against leaving the device plugged in," McLeod informs, "if you mistakenly depress the button, you may hurt yourself."

She outlines too, that the serrated blades should never be used to cut frozen foods or be sharpened.

So, this holiday season before you awkwardly attempt to cut that mountain of meat with a plain, old kitchen blade, try something motorised for that neater cut, which will have you looking like an expert carver.

Source: Jamaica Observer