How To Use Chopsticks - Fool-proof Technique

Learning how to use chopsticks may seem daunting at first, but with this fool-proof technique, you'll be able to pick up the skill in no time! There are a few things you need to know before getting started. First, when holding chopsticks, make sure to pinch them together near the top. This will give you more control over them. Second, use your thumb and index finger to move the food from the chopsticks to your mouth - don't try to use your whole hand! With a little practice, you'll be using chopsticks like a pro!

Different Types Of Chopsticks

Not all chopsticks are created equal! There are actually a few different types of chopsticks, each with its own unique benefits. Notoriously, thin metal chopsticks are the hardest to learn how to use but are also the most durable. But if you're just starting out, we recommend using textured chopsticks - as they're much easier to use and grip a bite to eat. Once you've gotten the hang of using chopsticks, feel free to experiment with different materials!

How To Eat With Chopsticks

So, let's say you go to a Japanese restaurant, and of course, there's a pair of chopsticks where you'd expect to see a knife and fork. Don't panic, here's exactly how to hold chopsticks without the risk of dropping food on your lap. 

1. Rest the chopsticks on your middle finger, with the first joint of the chopstick pointing towards your palm.
2. Then, hold the chopsticks in place with your thumb and index finger.
3. The key here is to not grip too tightly - as you'll want to be able to move the chopsticks around easily.

Now that you know how to hold chopsticks, it's time to learn how to actually use them! For starters, you'll want to practice picking up small pieces of food. Once you've got the hang of that, try moving on to larger pieces. And finally, once you're feeling confident, try using chopsticks to eat rice. It may take a little practice, but with these tips, you'll be a chopstick master in no time!

How To Use Chopsticks - Top Tips

While learning to eat with chopsticks can seriously step up your elegance at the dinner table, there are some things you must avoid at all costs, especially in a Japanese restaurant.

1. Never rub your chopsticks together
2. Don't skewer food using chopsticks
3. Resist the urge to point with your chopsticks
4. Don't leave your chopsticks crossed on your bowl or on the table
5. If you wish to share food, don't pass from one pair of chopsticks to another

How To Eat Sushi With Chopsticks

Sushi can be quite challenging to eat with chopsticks due to the dipping and gripping required. The best way to eat sushi with chopsticks is to first, pick up the sushi with your chopsticks around the middle of the piece and with a gentle but firm grip. Too tight, and you're going to cut the piece in half. Too gentle, and you'll drop it. Now you have the sushi, drip it fish side down into soy sauce and eat in one bite. If you feel as though your mouth is too full, cover it with your hand as you chew.

How To Use Chopsticks With Ramen

Ramen is a completely different ball game altogether as we introduce a soup and noodle combination. The best way to eat ramen with chopsticks is to first, use the chopsticks to grab a bunch of noodles and then slurp them up! This may sound messy, but it's actually the most effective way to get the noodles into your mouth without making a complete mess. Then, you can use your chopsticks to pick up any toppings or vegetables that you want. And finally, drink the soup directly from the bowl. While this technique might seem unnatural, it's the only way and most enjoyable. In fact, slurping the noodles is considered a compliment to the chef in some cultures!

Hoping these tips helped and you found your way around chopsticks a little better. If not, don't worry, practice makes perfect. In no time, you'll be using chopsticks like a pro! Just remember to have fun and enjoy your food - that's what it's all about. Explore our collection of high-quality, dishwasher safe chopsticks here.