What is a Mandoline?
Answer:
Often confused namewise with a mandolin, a musical
instrument, the mandoline is a kitchen utensil used to cut fruits and vegetables in precise and even slices. The kitchen tool, though not always a utensil found in ordinary households, is a plus for would-be home chefs, or wannabe gourmet cooks, as well as authentic professional cooks. (I’d be willing to bet Wolfgang Puck has one.)

Mandolines are made up of a frame and several razor-sharp blades for cutting food. The frame guides the food into the blades which can be adjusted to slice, julienne, waffle cut or crinkle cut fruits and vegetables. The utensil is worked manually and prepares foods, quickly and efficiently with precision cuts.

I have safety concerns about mandolines because of the sharpness of the blades, even though equipped with a safety guard. Food preparers should exercise caution and children should not have access to the utensil.

Mandolines vary in price and construction, but the lower end home variety usually has a plastic frame and limited blade settings. The more expensive models used by professionals are often metal or wood and of sturdier construction to stand up to rugged use. These models may offer additional inserts and several blade settings, and blades can vary from stainless to ceramic.

Prices range from $49.99 to $185.
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