7 Different Types of Chopsticks You Should Know About
Initially originating from China, chopsticks are an important utensil used worldwide. Anyone who likes to eat noodles might be well aware of the use of Chopsticks. The first evidence of chopsticks is dated back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC- 220AD). By 500 AD, the utensils were spread throughout Asia, from Japan to Vietnam. There are different types of chopsticks we can use.
Although every person uses chopsticks differently, the most common way is to place them on their dominant hand and between the thumb and fingers. This is because, over the years, the different cultures worldwide created their personalized chopsticks. Therefore, we can witness various kinds of chopsticks like rose gold chopsticks. If you are curious to know how one chopstick is different from the other, you are at the right place.
In this article, we have covered some different kinds of chopsticks worldwide.
1- Chinese Chopsticks
The Chinese chopsticks are generally 25cm long, rectangular with blunt pointed ends. These chopsticks are non-slipper and easy to hold any salad, sushi, noodles, or East Asian cuisines. Japanese people have a tradition of sharing food; therefore, these chopsticks are usually longer than other chopsticks. Moreover, the longer size of the chopsticks enables them to reach the dishes from a far distance. In the traditional Chinese culture, chopsticks are the primary tableware and reflect the table manners and education of the people. Therefore, the Chinese chopsticks have a good reputation for Chinese culture and heritage worldwide.
2- Japanese Chopsticks
Unlike Chinese Chopsticks, the Japanese chopsticks are usually shorter in size and typically rounded and taper to a point. The main reason behind the pointed ends of the chopsticks is that Chinese people love bony fish, so the pointed ends of the chopsticks help to remove the fish bones. Additionally, the Japanese people do not share food as they believe their spirits are attached to the lips and touch the utensils. Moreover, another interesting fact is that Japanese chopsticks are usually shorter for women and children.
3- Korean Chopsticks
The Korean Chopsticks are usually made of steel or silver metal and are of medium length with a small, flat rectangular shape. The origin of the silver chopsticks can be dated back to the 7th Century when it was believed that silver could detect arsenic poisoning. Additionally, silver is considered the symbol of status because not everyone can afford silver chopsticks. The Korean chopsticks are flat to save on material, but many of the Korean chopsticks also feature attractive decorations at the grip. Moreover, Korean chopsticks are more durable than wooden or plastic chopsticks, and various materials of chopsticks vary with social class.
4- Bamboo Chopsticks
Bamboo chopsticks are the most affordable materials for chopsticks. These chopsticks are eco-friendly and free from any toxicity, chemicals, etc. However, they can easily deteriorate with continuous use. Bamboo chopsticks are quite popular in Asian restaurants or takeaway foods. If you are looking for an affordable reusable keyword, Bamboo chopsticks are the right choice.
5- Wooden Chopsticks
The wooden chopsticks are another lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use utensil. These chopsticks are usually of hardwoods such as boxwood, chestnut wood, or red sandalwood to prevent it from swelling or absorbing the water during the cleaning and washing. However, it is important to take proper caution while buying the wooden chopsticks as you must ensure that the chopsticks you are buying have original color and no painted color.
6- Stainless Steel Chopsticks
As the name suggests, the stainless steel chopsticks are made from durable and easy to wash stainless steel. These chopsticks are usually very durable, easy-care, and reusable chopsticks that can easily last for long periods with heavy usage and washing. These chopsticks are suitable for hotels and kitchens and look classy on your table.
7- Silver Chopsticks
The Silver chopsticks are handmade from silver and hardwoods. Rich and wealthy people generally use these chopsticks. In ancient times, silver changed its color to black when contacted with the poison. Therefore, the wealthy people used to have silver chopsticks to prevent any potential danger. Today, silver chopsticks are a symbol of luxury and wealth.
The Bottom Line
The chopsticks are the most versatile and popular utensils used by people worldwide. The chopsticks are an indispensable part of Chinese and East Asia cuisines. In countries like Japan and China, chopsticks are a pivotal part of their everyday life. Today, we can easily find various chopsticks such as stainless steel, wooden, reusable chopsticks with case, and many more. In this article, we have talked about some of the most commonly found chopsticks worldwide.