Eating with food chopsticks is not easy and you may feel pressured, especially if you haven't learned how to use them as a child. However, you don't have to be afraid; with a little practice, you can learn to use these "cutlery" with ease. Hold them correctly and use them to gently grasp the bites. You should also know the basic rules of etiquette regarding these utensils, especially if you eat in a restaurant; by practicing a little you can master the technique.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Prepare the Chopsticks
Step 1. Separate them
Raise the chopsticks and hold one in each hand; push one forward while pulling the other close to you; they should snap neatly in the center. Also remember to lower them near your knees before proceeding, to avoid hitting the plates on the table.
Step 2. Rub them together to remove splinters
In some cases, the wood fibers leave imperfections where you separated the sticks; if you notice splinters, rub the surfaces together, smoothing them a few times.
However, avoid scrubbing the finer sticks, especially those that aren't disposable
Step 3. Do not break the wooden block at the end
Contrary to what many believe, it is not necessary to eliminate it; this element is not meant to be detached cleanly with the hands, you may encounter a lot of resistance, generate a lot of splinters and break the sticks unevenly.
Part 2 of 4: Holding the Chopsticks in the Hand
Step 1. Hold the first one between your thumb, forefinger and middle finger
These tools grab and use just like any other wand. The first must be held between the tips of the middle and index fingers, while the tip of the thumb guarantees stability by aligning it with the hand.
Don't worry if you can't grip it properly on the first try; a little practice is needed to master the exact technique
Step 2. Put the second wand between your thumb and palm
It should be below the first; insert it between the thumb and the palm of the hand using the finger to hold it still; this wand does not move while you eat.
Again, don't worry if you run into difficulties at first, it takes some practice
Step 3. Move the top one with your middle and index finger
Once you have learned the correct handle, learn how to handle the tools in the right way; only the upper stick should move and only thanks to the action of the middle and index finger, while the thumb must remain stationary.
- Some exercise is needed; take some time to familiarize yourself with the basic movements before trying to grab food. Work to keep your thumb steady with awareness so that you have more control over the "cutlery".
- If you are used to using different types of sticks, such as ceramic ones, you need time to adjust to the new tactile sensation.
Part 3 of 4: Handling Food
Step 1. Grab the food between the upper and lower rods
Once you have mastered the basic movements, it is quite simple to use them. You just have to move the upper one with the middle and index finger to bring it closer and away from the lower one; afterwards, you can pinch the bites and bring them to your mouth or plate.
While it may seem like a simple gesture, don't get frustrated if you take the time to check it out; this technique can be complex at first attempts, especially if you are used to using a fork and spoon. Give yourself time to practice the movement
Step 2. Collect the rice
In most Asian countries, rice can be pushed into the mouth with chopsticks. To eat it, bring the bowl to your face, keep the chopsticks parallel to each other and gently push the rice between your lips.
However, this movement is not considered appropriate in Korean culture, so avoid eating rice this way when in a Korean restaurant
Step 3. Don't let the chopsticks cross as you grab the food
When you lift a bite, check that the ends do not overlap forming an "X", otherwise you may find it very difficult to handle the food; however, if this happens, it means that you are squeezing the food too hard, put it back on the plate and try again more gently.
Part 4 of 4: Respect the etiquette
Step 1. Do not stick food with chopsticks
Although it may seem like the simple solution to your "grip" problems, never use them as a fork and to bring the morsels to your lips. Chopsticks are not designed for this purpose and food could slip off; furthermore, it is considered a rude gesture.
Step 2. Do not stick them vertically into the rice
In some Buddhist cultures, rice is offered to the spirit of the dead person in front of the relevant tabernacle. On this occasion the chopsticks are placed vertically in the cereal; for this reason, avoid repeating the gesture at the table, as you may unintentionally insult someone.
Not all individuals who use chopsticks practice Buddhism, but it is best to act with caution, especially if you are eating at a restaurant whose culture you are unfamiliar with
Step 3. Do not cross them on the plate or bowl
They are sometimes left in this position during funeral rites in Asian cultures. Although not all Eastern traditions provide for this practice, it is best to avoid the gesture for safety; if you are not eating, place them parallel near the plate instead of crossing them on it.
Step 4. Do not rinse them in drinks and soup
Washing them in the liquids present at the table is an unsanitary gesture; if the chopsticks are dirty, rub them in the napkin or ask for a clean pair instead of contaminating the soup with food particles.
Step 5. Do not pass food from one wand to another
During some Buddhist funerals the bones of the dead are passed from one tool to another after cremation; consequently, this gesture is considered a gaffe at the table, as it recalls death and funeral rituals.
