What is a santoku knife used for?

A Santoku knife, originating from Japan, is a versatile kitchen knife designed for a variety of cutting tasks. The name "Santoku" translates to "three virtues" or "three uses," suggesting its suitability for slicing, dicing, and mincing.

Unlike a chef's knife, the santoku typically has a shorter blade (usually between 5 and 7 inches) and a flatter profile. Some models feature grantons, also known as hollow edges, which create air pockets between the blade and the food, preventing sticking and allowing for smoother cuts. The santoku is a general-purpose knife suitable for many everyday kitchen tasks and is often preferred by those who find a chef's knife too large or unwieldy.