Smashing Garlic

[Using a Knife - V]

A knife is not only for chopping. As any chef will tell you, it’s also for smashing.

Take the clove of garlic, lay the side of the knife’s blade on top and hit the blade with your fist with moderate force. This releases the protective skin from the outside of the clove, making its removal easier.

Proceed with chopping or mincing the clove.

Conventional wisdom says, “Use a tool for its intended purpose. Use a knife only for cutting.”

Expert wisdom says, “There are exceptions. Sometimes a knife should be used for smashing.”

I imagine the first person to put their knife on its side was laughed out of the kitchen. And here we are; it’s now accepted practice.

Conventional wisdom will not get us where we need to go. Turn your knife on its side and smash. (You will likely get laughed at for a while.)