You might think you know every tool in your kitchen—but one item hiding in plain sight has a history that may surprise you.
That pull-out cutting board you use every day? It wasn’t always meant for chopping vegetables or slicing meats.
A Surprising Origin
Almost every kitchen has a cutting board, yet few of us pause to consider its history. Pull-out cutting boards were initially designed for breadmaking rather than general food prep. Bakers would knead dough on these boards, shape loaves, and even let the dough rise right on the same surface before heading to the oven.
Evolution into an Everyday Essential
Today, cutting boards serve countless purposes: chopping vegetables, slicing meats, preparing fruits, and more. They come in various materials, including plastic, bamboo, and wood. Among these, wood—especially maple—is widely considered the superior choice.
Maple’s durability as a hardwood resists knife cuts and limits bacterial growth. It is also easier to maintain than plastic or bamboo, which can harbor bacteria in grooves and scratches over time. Proper care is essential: scrub with baking soda or kosher salt and lemon, rinse with hot water, dry with a clean towel, and occasionally treat with food-grade cutting board oil to prevent cracking and warping.
Breadmaking at Home
Home baking, particularly breadmaking, has surged in popularity. Many find joy and creativity in baking at home, especially since the pandemic. With endless recipes and tutorials online, anyone can try their hand at homemade bread. For example, YouTube baker Becca Beach demonstrates in her video Homemade Bread – SUPER Easy and Delicious! just how simple and satisfying breadmaking can be.
Baking your own bread allows full control over ingredients, producing healthier loaves free from preservatives and additives common in store-bought bread. Plus, it can be more economical and extremely rewarding. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh bread and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch—it’s a unique kitchen experience.
From Past to Present
From its original use in breadmaking to its current role as a versatile kitchen staple, the cutting board has come a long way. With proper maintenance and care, a high-quality board—especially a maple one—can last for decades. And if you’re looking to expand your culinary skills, baking bread at home is a perfect place to start.
Conclusion
The humble cutting board is far more than a surface for chopping—it’s a tool with centuries of history, originally tied to breadmaking. With a little care, it can support everything from everyday meals to gourmet experiments. So, dust off that pull-out board, try your hand at homemade bread, and experience a kitchen tradition that’s both practical and delightfully rewarding.