Professional cooks can certainly work with cheaper kitchen knives, especially if they are sharp and well-maintained. However, there are distinct advantages to using higher-quality, more expensive knives in a professional kitchen setting:
Durability: Expensive knives are often made of higher-quality materials, such as high-carbon stainless steel or Damascus steel, which can withstand heavy use and retain their sharpness for longer periods. Cheaper knives may lose their edge more quickly and might need more frequent sharpening or replacement.
Precision and Performance: High-end knives are usually designed with better craftsmanship, balance, and weight distribution. This can result in improved precision, control, and overall performance when cutting, chopping, and slicing, making them more efficient for professional cooks.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Expensive knives are often designed with ergonomics in mind, providing a comfortable grip and reducing strain during extended use. Comfortable knives can lead to better handling and less fatigue for professional cooks during long shifts.
Versatility: Many expensive knife sets come with a variety of blade types, such as chef's knives, paring knives, bread knives, and boning knives. This versatility allows chefs to handle different tasks more effectively.
Maintenance and Sharpening: While any knife can be sharp, higher-quality knives tend to hold their edge better and can be easier to sharpen when needed. This means less downtime spent on maintenance for professional cooks.
That said, the skill and technique of the cook play a significant role in the final result, and a skilled chef can produce excellent dishes with cheaper knives. It's essential to prioritize keeping knives sharp, regardless of their cost, as a dull knife can be more dangerous and less efficient regardless of its initial price point.
Ultimately, the choice between expensive and cheaper knives may depend on the individual cook's preferences, budget, and specific needs. Some professional cooks may find that investing in high-quality knives is worth it for the long-term benefits they offer, while others may prefer to work with more affordable options.