Cutlery - without it, culinary and gastronomy would not function as it should
Cutlery is a tool for tasting the results of culinary "show-offs", for savouring specialities and delicacies. It is also an essential everyday household accessory. There can never be too much cutlery in the kitchen. To a large extent - empirically proven - we also consume with our eyes and, of course, with all our other senses. So it is worthwhile that the cutlery is perfectly balanced, practical to use, comfortable to hold in our hands, perfectly matched in size, thickness and their weight. Then the meal will bring a lot of joy to us and our guests.
What should we consider when choosing cutlery, which is also an ideal gift idea?
A cutlery set is a common gift idea, e.g. for a wedding, anniversary or birthday. However, cutlery is not the same - as is often said when comparing an almost identical product range, but in terms of quality. When it comes to cutlery, quality is by far the most important thing. How can it be verified? Here are the basic points which should be met by excellent cutlery as a gift for loved ones:
- design versatility - subtle and delicate designs will work best as a gift. Minimalism and simplicity work well here. This type of cutlery fits into any interior, for everyday occasions as well as festive ones. They are elegant in their simplicity and complement any table setting beautifully;
- proper proportions and perfect balance - branded cutlery from manufacturers who have been well-known for many, many years guarantees these factors - often the brand even backs this up with a so-called eternal guarantee;
- solid weight - the cutlery must not be too light or heavy; their weight must testify to their solidity of workmanship and the quality of the material. They should also be comfortable to use;
- appropriate certification to meet current European standards;
- stainless steel quality;
- dishwasher-safe and resistant to any damage, scratches, bending.
Dishwasher cutlery? What do the indications of type 18/10 steel mean?
When choosing cutlery, it is worth paying attention to the designation of the type of stainless steel. It is the quality of this steel that determines the cutlery's resistance to corrosion, mechanical damage, scratches and micro-damage after daily use in the dishwasher. Dishwasher-safe cutlery must always have this mechanical approval mark. In addition, choose stainless steel cutlery marked: 18/10 , highly polished. This designation indicates the chromium and nickel content of the steel. The first number 18 is the content of the first element. Chromium at a minimum level of 10.5 per cent is a guarantee of resistance and strength. The number 10, on the other hand, is nickel, which is responsible for magnetism or corrosion resistance. A level of 10 guarantees very good protection against corrosion and also gives the steel a visual advantage: it is brighter and with a more elegant sheen.
How to arrange cutlery properly. A few rules of table setting
Setting the table is the business card of ourselves, so it is worth taking care of its aesthetics and meeting all the rules of sovoir vivre. In spite of appearances, the arrangement of cutlery itself may prove troublesome for many of us. It is advisable to follow the simple guidelines below:
- arrange cutlery according to the order of the dishes. Place the cutlery furthest from the plates for the meal served first (i.e. the starter);
- place the fork to the left of the plate and the knife to the right (always with the blade towards the plate), followed by the spoon at a distance of approx. 3 cm from the knife;
- always place the spoon and dessert fork just above the plate (fork stem to the left and spoon opposite to the right);
- when serving fish as the main course: replace the traditional cutlery with that dedicated to fish: a fork with three tines and a dividing knife resembling a mini cake spatula.
In our home furnishings shop see also: cups, mugs, plates, dinner sets, tableware, pans, pots