Is your knife dull? Here's a homemade trick that saves the day
There's nothing more frustrating than trying to cut a tomato... and the knife sinks instead of sliding. Blunt knives not only make food preparation more difficult, they also increase the risk of accidents - yes, it's easier to cut yourself with a knife that doesn't cut properly. But you don't need a professional sharpener or sharpening stone to solve this.
The homemade trick: use the bottom of the mug
That's right: the base of a ceramic mug can save your knife in minutes. Most mugs have a rough, unglazed ring at the bottom - that's where the magic happens.
How to do it:
- Wash the mug thoroughly to ensure that the base is clean and grease-free.
- Turn it upside down on a firm surface.
- Hold the knife firmly and run the blade at an angle of 15 to 20 degrees, as if you were gently "scraping" the bottom of the mug.
- Do this 5 to 10 times on each side of the blade, alternating sides.
- Finish with a light wipe with a damp cloth - that's it!
Why does it work?
The rough ceramic is abrasive enough to realign the edge of the knife, eliminating small deformations and restoring the cut without damaging the metal. It's not a professional sharpener, but it's surprisingly effective.
Extra tips:
- Works best with stainless steel or similar knives. Serrated or ceramic knives should not be sharpened like this.
- Avoid pressing too hard - the movement should be light and controlled.
- Do this process from time to time to keep your knives always ready.
Did you like the tip?
Sharp knives are not a luxury, they are safety and practicality. And with this simple trick - using just a mug - you can transform meal preparation without spending anything.
Mirella Mendonça