Kitchen Slicers FAQs
Which slicer is best for making thin potato chips?
For very thin, uniform potato chips choose a mandolin with adjustable thin settings and a sturdy non-slip base. Look for models with sharp stainless steel blades and a hand guard to keep slices consistent and safe while producing wafer-thin cuts.
Can I use a cheese slicer for other foods?
Yes — cheese slicers work well on semi-soft fruits like pears and firm vegetables like cucumbers or zucchini. They’re less suited for very hard items or large dense vegetables, but for delicate, thin slices they’re excellent and quick.
How do I prevent my hands from getting cut on a mandolin?
Always use the hand guard or food holder that comes with the mandolin, consider wearing a cut-resistant glove, and keep your movements slow and controlled. Replace worn guards and don’t try to slice very small pieces without appropriate protection.
Are manual choppers better than food processors for small kitchens?
Manual choppers are compact, quieter, and easier to store, making them ideal for small kitchens and quick tasks like dicing onions or herbs. Food processors handle larger volumes and tougher jobs but take more space and cleanup effort.
How do I keep mandolin blades sharp without special tools?
Wipe blades clean and dry after each use, avoid dishwasher cycles that may blunt edges, and swap in a replacement blade when performance drops. For minor maintenance, a gentle run of a fine sharpening stone or specialized blade sharpener can help, but many cooks prefer replacing blades to maintain optimal slicing quality.
