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Despite the growing popularity of European dishes in Vietnam, not everyone knows the proper way to use a knife and fork gracefully. Today, PasGo will reveal the secrets of using knife and fork like a true Westerner.
Westerners take pride in their dining culture, characterized by silent and neat eating habits. Alongside this, there are strict and sophisticated rules for using spoons, knives, and forks appropriately. When indulging in European cuisine, using a knife and fork is inevitable, and doing so with finesse is a skill not everyone possesses. Let's uncover some useful tips to boost your confidence in enjoying European dishes!
Basic rules for using knives and forks
Hold the knife in your right hand, and the fork in your left. Dry food is brought to the mouth with the fork, while the knife is used for cutting, slicing meat, picking up spices, and never for eating directly.
Cutting food on the plate
- When cutting food, hold the knife and fork comfortably, naturally, and never grip them tightly.
- To cut food on the plate into small pieces, hold the knife in your right hand. Keep your index finger almost straight and place it at the top of the knife blade. The remaining four fingers grip the knife handle firmly. When the index finger is positioned at the top of the knife blade, the thumb will be on the side. The bottom part of the knife handle will rest in the palm of your hand.
- Hold the fork in your left hand, the forkhead facing downwards. Extend your index finger and place it on the back, close to the forkhead but not too close to avoid touching the food. The remaining four fingers will grip around the handle.
- Curve your wrist so that the index finger points down below the plate. This positioning directs the fork and knife towards the plate. Your wrist at this point should be relaxed, not pointing upwards or feeling uncomfortable.
- When cutting, secure the food on the plate by using force with the index finger holding the fork, place the knife near the fork, and move the knife blade to cut the food into small pieces. Typically, only cut 1 or 2 pieces at a time.
You should use the fork to scoop up small-sized or rice delicately instead of attempting to stab the food. Sometimes, you may use an additional knife or a piece of bread to scoop up the food.
When enjoying Italian pasta, spin the plate to twirl the noodles onto the fork. If there's a spoon, you can pair it with the fork to gather the pasta and then twist it onto the fork, resting the fork against the spoon for easier execution. If the pasta is too long and tangled, use a knife to cut it if necessary.
Eating salads, dessert, or indulging in butter or sweet treats requires a separate set of utensils. When consuming fruits, opt for a small, short, 2 or 3-pronged fork. Eat small pieces of fruit one at a time, letting the fork rest down, finish, then take another. Even when consuming sliced salads or vegetables, use the fork to transfer the food to your plate and use the knife to cut smaller portions of vegetables before eating. Avoid situations where you take a bite and there's still food on your fork.
If you want to pause during the meal, place the knife and fork in a position indicating a temporary break: Cross the knife blade and fork head on the plate, with the fork lying on the knife, the fork head facing downwards. This position will create an inverted 'V' shape.
Once finished eating, position the knife and fork in the completed meal stance. This signals to the server that they can clear your plate (if they understand the principle). The knife and fork are placed parallel to each other, the handle at 5 o'clock, and the knife blade and fork head in the center of the plate (fork head facing downwards).
Above is the complete guide on how to use knives and forks gracefully for European dining. Now, all that's left is to choose a restaurant with delicious food to practice these rules. PasGo suggests Botanica, where you can experience authentic European flavors at a very reasonable price! Head to Botanica to indulge in enticing tastes that you've been searching for.
Botanica – Delightful, authentic, and captivating every diner
At Botanica, you'll savor delectable and authentically European dishes that will leave an unforgettable taste in your memory. First on the list is the succulent BeefSteak, with tender, sweet meat blending perfectly with the distinctive sauce. It's a sophisticated combination, creating a flawless harmony of flavors without a single flaw. The beef is grilled to perfection, not overly done, ensuring a juicy and enduring taste.
The appealing BeefSteak plate captures diners' attention at first sight. Italian pasta and pizza, renowned European dishes, are also highlights at Botanica. The fragrant Italian pasta is prepared with a special recipe, perfectly cooked strands paired with creamy or tomato sauce. The pizza crust, neither too thin nor too thick, is generously filled with quality toppings, delivering the rich aroma of cheese, the robust flavor of sausage or cured beef... with a touch of onions and green peppers, ensuring a delightful experience without feeling overwhelmed, allowing you to savor as much as you want.
Italian pasta adorned with the enticing, eye-catching red of tomatoes A12 Tiny, delightful pizzas that capture the hearts of many Whether you're seeking a sophisticated yet affordable venue for a birthday celebration or looking for a spacious, delightful setting with delicious, eye-catching dishes, Botanica is here to fulfill your desires! Gather with friends and family to enjoy the European flavors right in the heart of Hanoi. Don't forget to reserve a table through PasGo – the network of fine dining for guaranteed seating and exciting offers!
>>> Explore more about the restaurant and its locations HERE.
