What is a mandoline slicer?

A mandoline slicer is kitchen utensil used to slice food items into uniform thicknesses or for creating julienne cuts. A mandoline works using two parallel surfaces. The food items slide across one surface before coming in contact with the other surface, where a blade rests parallel to the food item.

One of the surfaces on a mandoline slicer is adjustable, which allow users to make cuts of different thicknesses. The utensil cuts many different types of food into uniform slices, which provide even cooking times and improve presentation. Mandoline slicers are typically used to slice fruits, vegetables, cheeses or other items used for stir-fry.