Round Acacia Butcher Block 28cm

There is a real difference between a chopping board and a butcher block, and it comes down to thickness. At 5.5cm this is a block: heavy enough that it does not slide across the worktop when you lean into it, deep enough to absorb the shock of a cleaver, and substantial enough that the knife edge sinks slightly into the timber instead of being blunted against it. If you have only ever used thin boards, the first time you break down a chicken on one of these is a small revelation.

It is turned from solid acacia, a dense hardwood with a tight grain and a naturally varied colour that runs from honey through to deep chocolate in the same piece. Acacia is well suited to kitchen work because it is hard-wearing, relatively water-resistant for a timber, and grows quickly enough to be a sensible choice. The round format measures 28cm across, which is large enough for real prep work but small enough to carry to the table and use as a serving platter for bread, cheese or charcuterie.

Look after it as you would any solid wood block. Wash by hand with warm water and a little soap, never put it in the dishwasher, and stand it on edge to dry so air reaches both faces. Oil it with a food-safe mineral or wood oil every few weeks at first and then whenever the surface starts to look dry. Do not leave it soaking or sitting in standing water.

• Material: solid acacia wood
• Diameter: 27.9cm
• Thickness: 5.5cm
• Round format, suitable for chopping and serving
• Hand wash only, not dishwasher safe
• Oil regularly with a food-safe wood oil