Plane Cheese Slicer offers practical benefits for preparation and serving at home. It improves handling, hygiene, and presentation when you choose the right size and materials. Pick a plane cheese slicer that suits your cheese styles and your cleaning routine.
What it is and why it matters
A plane cheese slicer features a sharp, flat blade mounted on a sturdy frame with a comfortable handle. You pull it towards you over a block of cheese to create delicate, translucent shavings. This tool matters because it provides a level of thinness and uniformity that knives simply cannot achieve. It is perfect for creating elegant cheese presentations and for recipes requiring finely shaved cheese.
Using a plane slicer preserves the integrity of aged and crumbly cheeses that might break under a knife. It minimizes waste by allowing you to shave exactly the amount you need from a large wheel or block. This precision tool transforms a basic kitchen task into an art form, enhancing the overall cheese tasting experience.
Materials and build quality
High quality plane cheese slicers are constructed from durable, food safe stainless steel for the blade and body. The handle is often made from robust, ergonomic plastic or wood that provides a secure and comfortable grip. This construction ensures the tool is resistant to corrosion and easy to keep clean after each use.
Cheaper models may use lower grade metals that can rust or dull quickly with use. A well built slicer will feel substantial in your hand and have a blade that is firmly secured to the frame. Investing in a quality build guarantees longevity, consistent performance, and safe operation for years of reliable cheese slicing.
Sizes, formats, and compatibility
Plane cheese slicers typically come in a standard size designed to handle most common cheese blocks. The blade width usually ranges from 10 to 15 centimeters, which is ideal for slicing across a 200 to 500 gram piece of cheese. This format is universally compatible with hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino, and aged Gouda.
Some professional models offer wider blades for tackling very large cheese wheels. The basic design is a one size fits most solution for home use. Its simplicity means there are no complicated adjustments; it works effortlessly with any cheese firm enough to hold its shape under the blade’s pressure.
How to use it step by step
First, ensure your block of cheese is stable on a clean cutting board. Hold the plane slicer with the blade facing away from you and place it flat on one end of the cheese. Apply gentle, even pressure and pull the slicer smoothly towards your body in one confident motion.
The sharp blade will glide through the cheese, creating a perfect shaving. Repeat the process, moving the slicer to a new spot on the cheese for each slice. Always slice away from your body for maximum safety and control. You will quickly develop a rhythm for producing beautifully thin and even slices.
Care, cleaning, and storage
Clean your plane cheese slicer immediately after each use to prevent cheese residue from hardening. Hand wash the blade and handle with warm, soapy water, then dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth. This prevents water spots on the stainless steel and keeps the blade sharp.
Never put your cheese plane in the dishwasher, as the harsh detergent and high heat can damage the blade’s edge and the handle. Store it in a dry drawer or hang it on a hook to protect the sharp blade from contact with other utensils. Proper care ensures your slicer remains a reliable tool for many years.
Safety notes and hygiene
The blade on a cheese plane is extremely sharp, so always handle it with care. Always cut away from your body and keep your fingers clear of the blade’s path. Ensure the cheese block is secure on the board to prevent it from slipping during the slicing motion.
Maintain strict hygiene by washing the slicer before its first use and after every subsequent use. Do not use the slicer on cheeses with rinds you do not intend to eat, as particles can get trapped. A clean, dry tool is essential for both food safety and preserving the pure flavor of your cheese.
Serving and presentation ideas
Use your plane slicer to create elegant, delicate piles of shaved cheese for a sophisticated cheeseboard. These thin slices melt beautifully, making them perfect for topping hot dishes like soups, pasta, and gratins. The visual appeal of finely shaved cheese adds a professional touch to any plate.
Combine shaved Parmesan with arugula and lemon for a simple, stunning salad. Layer thin slices of aged cheddar on crusty bread for an elevated open faced sandwich. The versatility of the plane slicer allows for creative presentation that enhances both the flavor and appearance of your dishes.
Buying guide and price ranges
Basic, functional plane cheese slicers are very affordable, typically costing between 5 and 15 euros. These models perform well for occasional home use. Mid range options from reputable kitchenware brands cost between 15 and 30 euros and often feature improved ergonomics and more durable materials.
High end, professional grade slicers can cost 30 euros or more and are built for heavy duty use. When buying, prioritize a comfortable handle and a well made, sharp stainless steel blade. Read reviews to ensure the mechanism is sturdy and the blade stays securely in place during use.
Gift ideas and bundle options
A plane cheese slicer makes a fantastic gift for any foodie or home cook. Pair it with a nice wedge of aged cheese, like a Pecorino or Manchego, for a thoughtful and practical present. This combination is perfect for someone who enjoys entertaining and appreciates quality kitchen tools.
Consider creating a gourmet bundle by including a cheese board, a set of cheese knives, and some gourmet crackers. For a themed gift, add a bottle of wine that pairs well with the cheese. This transforms a simple tool into a complete cheese tasting experience that any recipient will love and use.
Alternatives and related accessories
The main alternative to a plane slicer is a wire cheese slicer, which is better suited for softer cheeses. A good quality chef’s knife can also be used for chunkier cuts, but it lacks the precision for thin shavings. A mandoline with a sharp blade can sometimes be used but is often less specialized for cheese.
Related accessories that complement a plane slicer include a sturdy wooden cutting board to provide a stable surface. A set of cheese knives is essential for handling different cheese textures that a plane cannot slice. A proper cheese storage paper or container is also key to keeping your remaining cheese block fresh for the next slicing session.