Chopsticks

Chopsticks: the images that flit through one's mind are usually of Asian cuisine and disposable chopsticks. In China alone, about 45 million pairs of chopsticks are disposed of each year. That's 1.7 million cubic meters of timber (or 25 million full-grown trees) every year!

However, disposable chopsticks aren't the only option for you. Consider Overstock's selection of fine chopsticks. Chopsticks are made of many materials and in many different styles. Chopsticks can be bamboo, plastic, wood, bone, metal, jade and ivory. Set the table with a hand carved wooden chopstick rest next to each place setting and a pair of hand carved jade chopsticks make a statement of style. No more rubbing disposable chopsticks together after breaking them apart to reduce the chance of wood slivers (Japanese etiquette considers this to be rude to the hosts, and that you are implying they are cheap).

The length of chopsticks also varies, each with different purposes. Very long chopsticks, usually about 30 or 40 centimeters (11-16 inches), tend to be used for cooking, especially for deep frying foods. In Japan they are called saibashi. Shorter chopsticks are used for eating but can be used for cooking as well. The ends of chopsticks are tapered to a blunt or pointed end. Blunt, tapered chopsticks provide more surface area for food and greater ease for pushing rice into the mouth, as the Chinese do. Manipulation of food is made easier with point-tapered chopsticks.

Sushi is also associated with chopsticks, and Overstock.com has chopsticks that would thrill the sushi connoisseur. So whether you are serving up Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese food, Overstock.com has chopsticks and chopstick rests to add flair to your meals. Feel free to deviate from traditional flatware once in a while and have fun! Then check out Overstock.com's kitchen department and home store for other inspiring items to add to your fun!