Why Does Cooking Take You So Long? Here’s What You’re Missing

Ever tried a “15-minute recipe” only to find yourself still chopping veggies 30 minutes later? The real time-killer in cooking isn’t the heat—it’s the prep work. Knife skills and the right tools can cut that time dramatically, and make cooking a lot more enjoyable.

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Step 1: Master the Pinch Grip

The way you hold a knife changes everything. Instead of grabbing the handle tightly at the end, use a pinch grip: place your thumb and index finger on the blade, just above the handle. This gives you more control and reduces strain on your wrist.

For smaller knives, like petty or slicers, resting your index finger on the spine is also effective.

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Step 2: Learn the Three Cutting Motions

Rocking Motion

Keep the knife tip anchored on the cutting board and rock the blade back and forth. It’s stable, beginner-friendly, and works well with curved blades like a French chef knife. These days, many prefer versatile Japanese-style Gyuto knives, which allow for multiple techniques.

Push Cut

Push the knife forward through the ingredient in a clean, controlled stroke. This style protects delicate foods from bruising. A well-balanced Gyuto or Kiritsuke makes this easier for beginners.

Chopping

Quick up-and-down motions are flashy but demanding. They can damage food if your knife isn’t razor-sharp. If you love speed, a straight-edged Nakiri or cleaver is the right tool.

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Step 3: Practice Four Essential Veggie Cuts

With these four, you can prep almost any meal:

• Julienne: Thin sticks, 5–6 cm long, 3 mm thick.

• Dice: Cubes cut from julienne strips (3–5 mm).

• Fine Julienne: Extra-thin strips, 1–2 mm wide.

• Fine Dice: Tiny cubes, made from fine julienne.

To make prep easier, keep your knife sharp with a sharpening stone.

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Step 4: Choose the Right Knife

Your technique matters, but your knife matters even more. A balanced, sharp knife that matches your cutting style makes prep smoother, faster, and safer. That’s why many chefs invest in durable knife bags to carry the right tool for the job.

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Final Thoughts

If cooking feels like it takes forever, it’s time to sharpen your fundamentals. With the right grip, motions, and knife, your kitchen prep becomes quick, efficient, and even enjoyable.

At Hephais, we design premium chef knives and chef tools that help professionals and home cooks alike master the basics. Here’s how you can speed up your prep and finally enjoy faster weeknight cooking.

👉 Watch the full tutorial here: Why Does Cooking Take You So Long? Here’s What You’re Missing