When most people think of chopsticks, they picture a pair of dining utensils for sushi or noodles. But in kitchens across Asia—and increasingly around the world—long wooden cooking chopsticks are an indispensable tool. Known as saibashi or ryoribashi in Japan, these extra-long chopsticks are typically 10–20 cm (4–8 inches) longer than standard eating chopsticks, making them perfect for cooking.

Our Handmade Wooden Cooking Chopsticksare crafted from natural wood for safe, everyday cooking.”

So why should you add them to your kitchen? Let’s dive into how they’re used and the many advantages they offer.

What Are Cooking Chopsticks Used For?

Cooking chopsticks can take the place of many other utensils, offering precision and versatility in the kitchen. Here are some of the most common uses:

• Stir-frying and sautéing – Move, flip, and stir small pieces of meat, tofu, or vegetables with accuracy.

• Deep-frying – Safely lift food out of hot oil without getting too close, and test the oil temperature by dipping the chopsticks—if bubbles form, the oil is ready.

• Grilling – Place or flip delicate items like fish or vegetables on the grill, or even rescue food that slips through the grates.

• Scrambling eggs – Gentle on non-stick pans and great for breaking up curds.

• Mixing batters or sauces – Their slender shape makes them ideal for stirring vinaigrettes, cake batters, or even coffee.

• Tossing salads – Their light touch helps toss leaves without bruising and makes it easy to scoop up small toppings from the bottom of the bowl.

• Cooking noodles – Loosen clumped pasta or ramen without breaking the strands.

• Plating and garnish – Perfect for placing micro-herbs, edible flowers, or other delicate garnishes with care.

Advantages of Long Wooden Cooking Chopsticks

So why reach for long cooking chopsticks instead of tongs or a spatula?

1. Precision and Control

Chopsticks allow you to handle individual pieces of food with care, flip items gently, and move them exactly where you want. Unlike tongs, they don’t crush or break delicate foods.

2. Safety from Heat

Their extra length keeps your hands at a safe distance from hot oil, steam, or flames—making them ideal for frying or grilling.

3. Gentle on Cookware

Made from wood (ours are made from Teak wood), cooking chopsticks won’t scratch non-stick surfaces the way metal tools can.

4. Lightweight and Quick

Because they’re slim and light, chopsticks can actually be faster to use than bulkier utensils, especially when stir-frying or flipping smaller items.

5. Versatility

From cooking to mixing, serving, and even plating, they truly are a multi-purpose tool. Many cooks find themselves reaching for them instead of tongs once they get the hang of it.

What’s the Best Size for Cooking Chopsticks?

If you’re new to using cooking chopsticks, shorter ones (around 33 cm / 13 inches) are a great place to start. They’re long enough to keep you safe from heat but easier to control than extra-long versions. With practice, you may want to explore longer sizes, which give you even more reach when deep-frying or grilling outdoors.

Why Wooden Chopsticks Are the Best Choice

While metal or plastic utensils can be tempting, wooden chopsticks are the safest and most effective option for cooking. They’re heat-resistant, gentle on cookware, and won’t leach chemicals into food. Plastic or coated chopsticks, on the other hand, are not suitable for high-heat cooking and should be avoided. All of Yompai's cooking chopsticks are made from Teak wood, no lacquers, no plastic, no coatings. 

Final Thoughts

Long wooden cooking chopsticks may not be the first tool you think of for your kitchen—but once you start using them, they quickly become a favorite. From frying and stir-frying to tossing salads and plating food, their precision, safety, and versatility make them an indispensable cooking companion.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, investing in a pair of handmade wooden cooking chopsticks will bring both practicality and a touch of tradition to your kitchen.

Shop our wooden cooking chopsticks here