Cutting boards have long been a kitchen staple, from their humble beginnings in breadmaking to their current status as indispensable tools for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Among the various materials used for cutting boards, maple stands out as a clear favorite, and for good reason.
Maple is a hard, durable wood that can withstand the rigors of frequent use and knife cuts. Unlike softer woods or plastic, maple cutting boards are less likely to develop deep grooves and scratches that can harbor harmful bacteria. This makes them not only more durable but also easier to maintain and keep clean.
One of the key advantages of maple cutting boards is their natural antimicrobial properties. Maple’s dense grain and hardness make it more resistant to bacteria growth compared to other materials like plastic or bamboo. This is particularly important for food preparation, ensuring a safer and more hygienic surface for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Proper care and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity of your maple cutting board. After each use, it’s essential to scrub the board with a mixture of baking soda or kosher salt and lemon juice to remove stains and odors. Rinse thoroughly with hot water and dry with a clean towel. Applying a food-grade cutting board oil can help prevent the wood from drying out and cracking over time.
While cutting boards have evolved beyond their original breadmaking purpose, their connection to the art of breadmaking remains strong. Many home bakers and professional chefs alike value the clean, stable surface that a quality maple cutting board provides for kneading dough, letting it rise, and preparing it for the oven.
The rise of home baking during the COVID-19 pandemic has led many people to discover the joys of making their own bread. Numerous online tutorials, such as the popular “Homemade Bread – SUPER Easy and Delicious!” video from Becca Beach, have inspired home cooks to explore the art of breadmaking, often with the trusty maple cutting board by their side.
Cutting boards have come a long way since their origins in breadmaking. Today, they serve a multitude of purposes, from chopping and slicing meats and vegetables to preparing a wide range of culinary delights. And through it all, maple cutting boards have remained a steadfast favorite, thanks to their unparalleled durability, antimicrobial properties, and connection to the enduring art of breadmaking.
