“SHIF-o-nod” – that is how to pronounce chiffonade. Or if that’s too much for you, just call it “cutting herbs into thin strips” because that’s what it means! Learning how to chiffonade herbs can help you create beautiful and nourishing dishes. We eat with our eyes first, and when a dish has a pop of bright green, it is naturally more appealing!
Basil is the most common ingredient that you will chiffonade, but once you learn how to chiffonade basil, you can try the technique with other fresh herbs or greens, such as mint, spinach, or cabbage.
Learn to Chiffonade in 4 Simple Steps
- Stack
- Roll
- Slice
- Sprinkle!
Stack fresh basil leaves on top of eachother and roll into a tight cigar shape.
Using a chef’s knife with a proper knife hold and a secure cutting board, slice into thin strips. Pick up the prepared basil and sprinkle it on soups, sandwiches, pasta, pizza, or salads.
Once you understand this knife technique, you will be able to add attractive garnishes to all of your dishes!
Learn more of the best ways to chop fresh herbs such as parsley and cilantro by watching this video!
Want to take your knife skills to the next level? Take our online knife skills 101 course!
