All About the Santoku Knife

Introduction

The Santoku knife may have started out as a beloved tool in Eastern kitchens. But today it’s a must have in Western kitchens as well—with good reason. A precision knife designed for finesse, the Santoku is excellent at a variety of tasks and has a lightweight, balanced feel. The Santoku’s user-friendly (and chef-worthy) skills make it an important member of any kitchen collection, both a great beginner kitchen knife and beloved by the pros . THE CUSTOM CHEF™’s updated design turns the Santoku into a daily essential.

What is a Santoku Knife?

Santoku is a Japanese term meaning “three virtues.” The knife was given the name due to its ability to handle meat, fish, and vegetables with equal aplomb. Santokus are generally between 5 and 7 inches long and have a strong, straight, razor sharp blade. 

Another unique element that sets Santoku knives apart from their Western counterparts: The blade features several dimples or scallops—slight indentations in the steel—which allow for air flow around food when slicing or chopping and prevent food from sticking to the blade. With this clever design, it’s easy to slice, dice, and mince with fluid motion (no having to stop and scrape foods off the blade).

The Santoku knife is often compared to its Western cousin, the chef’s knife. Both knives have all-purpose capabilities and are excellent anchors for any beginner cook’s kitchen. You might find yourself reaching for your Santoku for its easy food release (especially when prepping produce), maneuverability, and lighter feel. For heftier produce or cuts of meat, your chef’s knife will handily fit the bill. (For more on Santoku knives vs. chef’s knives, see below.)

A Brief History of the Santoku 

The Santoku entered the Western food scene after World War II as an alternative to the broader, more traditional cleaver. The Japanese kitchen knife’s precise, graceful handling made it a popular constant in modern kitchens—a role it still enjoys today.

Home cooks will love how easy it is to control a Santoku. (Just learning how to cook? A Santoku is your friend!) Though the blade is larger than that of a paring or utility knife, the knife is lightweight and comfortable to hold. 

The Santoku is also appreciated for its clean aesthetic and range. All of which are why, in homes and restaurants all over the world, you’re likely to find a Santoku knife. 

What Is a Santoku Knife Best Used For?

Although Santoku and chef’s knives often overlap in their skills, there are times when one may be better suited to your kitchen job than the other. Santokus have a straight edge, ending in a gently curving tip (called a sheep’s foot tip), so they are best for quick, clean chops. 

A chef’s knife is designed for a rocking-style cut with a pointy tip and rounded edge. It excels at heavier-duty tasks, such as trimming thick cuts of meat or chopping larger, sturdier produce like watermelon or squash.

Everyday prep is where Santokus stand out. Julienning veggies? Chopping herbs and garlic? Slicing thin cuts of meat, fish, or poultry? These knives are easy to hold and maneuver, especially for more detailed kitchen tasks and precise, even cuts. And those with smaller hands will appreciate their light, balanced weight.

What to Look for When Buying a Santoku

When shopping for a Santoku, seek one out that feels balanced when you hold it (as opposed to heavy towards the front or handle end). Pay attention to the blade material; the best are high-carbon stainless steel, durable and great at keeping a sharp edge. 

Speaking of edges, Santokus most commonly have either a hollow-ground edge, where the blade is given a concave shape with a thin, sharp edge, or a Granton edge, recessed scallops or dimples along the length of the blade that minimize food sticking and make your knife work more efficient. (In contrast, chef’s knives often have a straight edge, continuously plain and even for steady cuts.) 

Santoku handles are generally wood or a wood composite, easy to grip and to clean. At THE CUSTOM CHEF™, you can personalize your knife’s high-carbon stainless steel blade and/or its handle, turning it into a unique keepsake or gift.

The Custom Touch

THE CUSTOM CHEF™ offers the possibility to add artwork, monogramming, favorite phrases, and more to many of our knives. Online or in our retail stores, check out all the options, from animals to zodiac signs to flowers. Add words to the blade (#1 Dad!) or a newlywed couple’s names or initials. Or you may prefer to engrave the handle. 

Choose your design, add it to your cart, and suddenly your Santoku is a custom-made treasure, perfect as a kitchen gift idea or special addition to your own kitchen.

Conclusion

Whether you’re deciding on your first high-quality kitchen knife or building out your kitchen tool kit, the Santoku is an excellent choice. Thanks to its versatility, precision, and range in working with vegetables, meat, and fish, these knives have become must-have staples in professional and home kitchens around the world. 

Explore THE CUSTOM CHEF™ Santoku collection and transform your own prep work—one perfect mince and slice at a time.