The Usuba paring knife is a traditional Japanese knife, designed specifically for making fine, precise, and elegant cuts on vegetables. What sets it apart is its straight, thin blade, often rectangular in shape, sharpened only on one side (single bevel). This configuration allows for extreme precision, particularly for decorative cuts or thin slices used in kaiseki cuisine. Unlike Western paring knives, which are often curved or thick, the Usuba paring knife offers exceptional control over the cutting line. Highly valued in professional Japanese kitchens, it is used to minimize crushing of plant fibers, which helps preserve texture, color, and flavor. At Stay Sharp, each Usuba knife is selected to offer a perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship, modern ergonomics, and lasting efficiency. It is the tool of choice for those looking to enhance their vegetable cuts with rigor and elegance.

There are two main variations of the Usuba vegetable knife: the Edo-Usuba and the Kamagata Usuba, both derived from regional Japanese culinary traditions. The Edo-Usuba, originating from the Kanto region (Tokyo), has a straight blade with a square tip, ideal for vertical cuts, julienne strips, or making thin, even slices. The Kamagata Usuba, typical of Kansai (Osaka), has a blade that curves toward the tip, giving it greater versatility and allowing for more detailed cuts, such as mukimono (vegetable carving). The choice between these two styles depends on the cook's gesture and preferences: the Edo is rigid, straight, and structured; the Kamagata is more fluid and artistic. Stay Sharp offers both variations in its collection to meet the needs of purists and creative chefs alike. Regardless of the model chosen, each Usuba vegetable knife is designed to offer total control over cutting.

Although the Usuba paring knife has historically been used by Japanese chefs in high-end kitchens, it is also perfectly suited for those with a passion for cooking who want to improve their precision. Its ultra-thin blade and unique bevel allow it to achieve results unmatched by a standard knife. Whether you're a home cook or an experienced chef, the Usuba will help you achieve clean slices, uniform cuts, and aesthetic presentations. However, it's important to know that this type of blade requires a minimum of practice and a controlled cutting angle, especially on firm vegetables. At Stay Sharp, we guide our customers in choosing their Usuba paring knife based on their experience level, and offer models that are perfectly balanced for a smooth grip. With a little practice, you'll find it to be a tool that's as rewarding as it is effective.

The Usuba paring knife is designed for cutting all types of vegetables, whether tender or firm. Its thin, sharp, rectangular blade allows for quick, straight, and even cutting of lettuce, cabbage, spinach, as well as root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, daikon radishes, and beets. Thanks to its single-sided sharpening, it allows for extremely fine cuts without altering the structure of the vegetable, which is particularly useful for raw dishes or decorative garnishes. The Usuba paring knife is also effective for thinly slicing zucchini, eggplant, or cucumber, and excels at cutting into ribbons or julienne strips. It is an essential tool for plant-based cooking enthusiasts or those who want to highlight the freshness and natural texture of their vegetables. The Stay Sharp collection includes models to suit all cutting preferences.

Proper maintenance is crucial to maintaining the cutting quality of your Usuba paring knife. First rule: never put it in the dishwasher. After each use, it is recommended to hand wash it with water and a soft sponge, then dry it immediately with a clean cloth. If the blade is made of carbon steel (sharper, but prone to rust), you can apply a light coat of cooking oil to prevent rust. The edge should be maintained regularly using a Japanese whetstone using a technique adapted to single-bevel blades. Using a conventional sharpening steel is not recommended, as it could damage the specific geometry of the blade. Store your Usuba in a wooden case (saya) or on a clean magnetic bar, taking care to avoid contact with other metal objects. At Stay Sharp, we also offer a professional sharpening service to extend the life of your paring knife while maintaining its optimal performance.