What is a chef’s knife primarily used for?

A chef’s knife is primarily used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients due to its versatile design and sharp, broad blade. This knife typically features a flat cutting edge that allows for a rocking motion, which is ideal for quickly and efficiently processing a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, and proteins. The weight and balance of the knife enable the chef to exert control while cutting, making it an essential tool in both professional and home kitchens.

The other options represent specific tasks that can be done, but they are not the primary functions of a chef’s knife. Grating ingredients is usually reserved for tools like box graters or microplanes. Whipping ingredients involves using tools like whisks or mixers, and peeling fruits is typically done with a paring knife or peeler. While a chef's knife can handle a range of tasks, its primary design and purpose focus on cutting, which includes chopping, slicing, and dicing.