Kitchen

When a Mandoline Is Worth Using

A mandoline is useful when consistent thickness matters more than the flexibility of a knife. It can turn potatoes, onions, cucumbers, and similar produce into very even slices quickly, which helps pieces cook or pickle at the same rate.

The tradeoff is an exposed, extremely sharp blade. The hand guard is not optional decoration; use it, or use a cut-resistant glove designed for food preparation. The tool saves time only when it is used with enough respect for the blade.