The Hidden History of Your Kitchen Cutting Board
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have a cutting board in your kitchen. Often overlooked, cutting boards are essential tools we take for granted. But did you know they’ve been used for thousands of years? In fact, pull-out cutting boards were originally designed for breadmaking.
From Breadmaking to Everyday Prep
Historically, bakers used large pull-out boards to knead dough and shape loaves. After kneading, they let the dough rise directly on the same board before baking. Today, cutting boards serve far more purposes. We use them to chop, slice, and dice meats, vegetables, and fruits.
Cutting boards come in many materials, including plastic, bamboo, and wood. Among these, maple wood boards stand out as the best option. Maple is a durable hardwood that resists knife marks and bacteria. Unlike plastic or bamboo, maple boards are easier to maintain and less likely to harbor harmful germs.
Caring for Your Cutting Board
Maintaining a cutting board ensures it lasts for years. After each use, clean it with baking soda or kosher salt and lemon. Scrub thoroughly, rinse with hot water, and dry with a clean towel. Treat the board with food-grade cutting board oil to prevent cracking and drying.
Evolving Shapes, Expanding Uses
Cutting boards have evolved in shape and purpose. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, they remain a kitchen staple. Proper care ensures a safe, fresh surface for food prep and extends the board’s lifespan.
Baking Bread at Home
If you enjoy home baking, a pull-out cutting board can shine. During the pandemic, baking bread at home gained popularity, offering a rewarding and creative activity. Many online tutorials, including YouTube channel Becca Beach, guide bakers step by step. In her video Homemade Bread – SUPER Easy and Delicious!, Becca demonstrates how simple it is to bake a perfect loaf at home.
Baking your own bread is healthier and often more economical than store-bought options. You control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives. Plus, homemade bread tastes amazing—a fact my family and I can attest to!
The Timeless Kitchen Staple
From its origins in breadmaking to its modern versatility, the cutting board has come a long way. With proper care, it remains a durable, safe, and essential tool. Pair it with a fun home-baking project, like making bread, and you’ll rediscover the joy of hands-on cooking.