If you look closely at your kitchen scissors, you may notice a small toothed section between the handles. While many assume it’s decorative, it’s actually a clever multitool designed for crushing, gripping, and holding items securely—making meal prep easier. This notch is perfect for quickly crushing garlic without a press, cracking nuts or shellfish, or gripping tough-skinned fruits like citrus and pomegranates. It can even hold chicken bones steady while deboning or strip herb stems with ease.

By combining several functions into one tool, it saves time and reduces the need for extra gadgets. Unlike the blades, the toothed section never fully closes. This design allows it to apply pressure without slicing through, making it safe and effective for tasks that require grip rather than cutting. Positioned ergonomically between the handles, it lets you apply pressure comfortably while minimizing strain on your hands.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike rely on this underrated feature. Along with being durable and often dishwasher-safe, kitchen scissors with a toothed notch are one of the most versatile tools in the kitchen. Small but mighty, it’s a hidden helper that makes cooking faster, cleaner, and more efficient.