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If you are someone who regularly cooks, then you are well aware of how frustrating it is to cut every single vegetable for your meal. If you are looking for a quicker way to get all these prep work done, then you should consider a mandoline slicer.
Don’t know how to use a mandoline slicer? Is it something that is best left to professionals? Or is it something that even the average joe can use? All of these questions and more are answered in this article.
Table of Contents
What Is a Mandoline Slicer?
A mandoline slicer is an excellent kitchen tool and is ideal for getting your vegetables prepped for your meal quickly. This handy tool is especially great for those with a busy lifestyle. If you are keen on knowing how to use it to your advantage, we’ve got you covered.
While this kitchen tool can possibly be used to slice almost any food, a mandoline slicer is a kitchen tool that is used most commonly to slice fruits, vegetables, and in some cases, even cheese. This is a brilliant tool if you want to make French fries, salads, or a large variety of other dishes.
Two Types of Mandoline Slicers
These slicers should not be confused with spiralizers or cutters, though. They are able to cut the food in multiple ways depending on the type of mandoline slicer you own. There are two common types of mandoline slicers: plastic and stainless steel mandoline slicers.
These two are more or less the same in that they operate in a similar way and have the same functionalities. However, the stainless-steel slicer is far more durable and last longer than its plastic counterpart. They tend to be more expensive for this reason too.
With that said, stainless-steel slicers require much more maintenance than plastic ones. You will need to occasionally oil it to keep all the parts working. Plastic slicers can be tossed in a dishwasher and require no oiling.
What Are the Different Cuts a Mandoline Slicer Offers?
The newer models tend to have newer blade types and are more adjustable. Depending on the type of mandoline slicer you own, the following are the kinds of cuts it can possibly offer:
- Slice
This is the most common type of cut you can get from a mandoline slicer. Depending on the slicer you own, you will be able to choose between a large variety of thicknesses. All types of mandoline slicers can do this type of cut. However, the level of thickness will differ.
- Julienne
Julienne is another popular way to chop foods with a mandoline slicer. These are thin strips, and their thickness is adjustable depending on the model you own. These are ideal for carrots, aubergines, peppers, cucumbers, and more.
- Matchstick
These are quite similar to Julienne but are much thinner and shorter. As the name suggests, it almost resembles a matchstick. These are ideal for making coleslaw.
- Crinkle
Crinkle cuts make small V-shaped cuts up and down the side of the food you slice. Crinkle potato chips are the most common and popular among all. You can also crinkle courgettes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and more.
- Waffle
These are similar to the previous cut but have a similarity to a waffle. This is an awesome way to cut any type of hard vegetable.
How to Use a Mandoline Slicer
Even though a Mandoline slicer can effectively cut down on the prep work and time, people are still quite hesitant to use this kitchen tool. One of the main reasons is due to its sharp blade, which tends to intimidate people.
Then again, that’s not the case at all. Even though these have sharp blades, they are easy to use and even safe when used correctly. They will allow you to create beautiful looking food in just minutes.
Step 1: Refer to the User Manual
Before using your mandoline slicer, it is essential that you refer to the user manual. Even though most of these slicers work similarly, each model will have its own unique features. Hence, it is imperative that you know and learn about every single one of them before you begin slicing.
In the user manual, you will find all the necessary information on how you can set up the mandoline slicer correctly, how to adjust the blades to get your desired thickness, and also how you can change the blades. The manual will also give you instructions on how to clean, maintain, and store the slicer properly.
Step 2: Choose Preferred Thickness and Cut Style
Once you’ve set everything up, you will need to decide the style of the cut. For this, think about the kind of meal you will be preparing.
For instance, if you are going to make a stir fry, it would be wise to cut the vegetables in a Julienne cut as they are thin. You will also need to set the desired thickness. Most models tend to have a knob on the side that you can turn to reach the appropriate thickness.
Step 3: Learn How to Use the Holder
Now that you know the style and thickness you want, you will need to test the slicer. This depends on the model too. However, the most important thing to note is that the platform is attached to the holding device.
The holding device will come with the slicer so that you can avoid any injury when you are using it. Ensure that you are moving the food across the blade with the holder and not your hand. As an added safety measure, you can always use cut-resistant gloves.
Step 4: Start Slicing!
Once you’ve set everything up and taken all necessary precautions, you can begin testing the ingredients on the slicer. All you have to do is push the food with the holder across the blade.
The blade will slice the ingredients below it. Be sure to place a plate under the slicer. Some models come with its own container as well.
Conclusion
Now, we are certain you know how to use a mandoline slicer. As you can see, these are quite easy to use, and with some practice, you will master it right away.
Always ensure you use it with a holder and cut-resistant gloves to reduce the risk of injury. Furthermore, opt for a mandoline slicer from a reputed brand as they will be safer to use and will last much longer.