The best way to cut open bread is using a serrated bread knife with a sawing motion, keeping the bread stable while slicing. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Steps for Cutting Bread:
-
Use a Serrated Bread Knife: This is crucial. The serrated edge allows you to saw through the crust without crushing the soft interior. A standard chef's knife is not ideal and will likely compress the bread.
-
Position the Bread: Place the loaf on a stable cutting board.
-
Stabilize the Bread: Put your non-dominant hand on top of the loaf, using a gentle downward pressure to keep it from moving. Avoid putting your fingers in the path of the knife!
-
Start Cutting: Begin cutting near the edge of the bread (typically the end of the loaf).
-
Use a Sawing Motion: Don't press straight down. Instead, use a gentle sawing motion, moving the knife back and forth across the bread. This helps the serrated edge do its job.
-
Maintain a Slight Angle: While not always necessary, a slight downward angle (around 45 degrees as mentioned in the reference) can be helpful, especially with a very crusty loaf. This allows the serrations to "catch" the crust more effectively. However, focus on the sawing motion more than a precise angle.
-
Cut to Your Desired Thickness: Continue sawing until you have a slice of the desired thickness.
Tips for Easier Bread Cutting:
- Let Bread Cool Completely: Freshly baked bread is softer and more difficult to cut cleanly. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Sharp Knife is Key: A sharp serrated knife will make the process much easier and safer. Consider sharpening your bread knife periodically.
- Different Breads, Different Approaches: Softer breads may require a more delicate touch, while crustier breads might need more sawing force. Adjust your technique accordingly.
- Consider an Electric Knife: For those who have difficulty with manual slicing, an electric knife designed for bread can be a good option.
By following these steps, you can achieve clean, even slices of bread every time.
