I have to admit, the worst cut I got in cooking school was from using a mandoline. I have since learned a couple of important safety tips and now find the mandoline a very valuable kitchen tool. It can greatly decrease prep time by making quick work of slicing and dicing and aids in achieving a super thin slice. I use it for everything from carrots to onions to zucchini to cheese. When purchasing a mandoline don't go for the frills. I like the Japanese version the best. It's small, compact, and really easy to clean. Plus it's less than $25.
If your mandoline comes with a guard, use it! There is no better way to keep your fingers and palm safe. If you don’t have a guard follow these few simple rules:
- If slicing something into rounds, always keep your finger tucked. See photo above
- If slicing something into strips, always keep your palm flat and your fingers lifted.
- When you reach the bottom of the item you are slicing use the heel of your hand to push.
- Always keep your blade sharp! It might sound counter-intuitive, but a dull blade is more dangerous, since you will end up struggling to slice, and are more likely to slip and cut yourself in the process.
From: TamiG | 3/11/10 at 9:51 am
How do you sharpen a mandolin blade?
From: susan moseley | 3/13/10 at 12:05 pm
how do you sharpen a mandoline blade?? What japanese model do you recommend and does it have a prop up stand? thanks
From: Sofia | 4/7/10 at 2:32 pm
OMG... I got a few times horrible cuts from mandolins. I cannot seem to learn my lesson. Best place to sharpen any blade is to take it straight to Ace. I always have been very lucky with my local Ace Hardware store
From: Beau | 8/11/10 at 2:55 am
Use a kevlar glove! Available online and in many stores.
From: Lynn | 6/13/12 at 7:46 am
Definately a Kevlar glove! So simple to make using the glove with a mandolin a habit and avoid the emergency room. I ordered a pair online & gave one to my sister as we had both had the guard slip & take off the end or side of a finger.
From: Judy Smith | 3/20/13 at 4:14 pm
On your frying potato Cooking Show you used a Graufrette mandolin.Where can I buy one??? Please let me know. Thanks.