Stabilize wobbly round ingredients by cutting a flat side first
If an ingredient is round and unstable, slice off an end/side to create a flat base before chopping.
He notes that when something feels vulnerable/wobbly, you’re more likely to cut yourself. His fix is to take a small slice off to make it flat, then place it on the flat side to continue.
The short version
- Wobbly = risky; flatten it first.
- Always cut on a stable base.
What you need
- chef's knife
- cutting board
How to do it
- 1
If the item feels wobbly/unstable, stop and assess stability.
Wobbliness is a warning sign for cuts.
Watch this step - 2
Slice off a small end/side to create a flat surface.
Remove only enough to stop it rolling.
Watch this step - 3
Turn the ingredient onto the flat side and continue chopping.
Work with the stable base facing down.
Watch this step
What goes wrong
Trying to chop a rolling ingredient as-is
Create a flat base before continuing.
Why it works
A flat base prevents rolling, improving control and safety.
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