Women's History Month: An Interview with Ignacia Valdes

In celebration of Women's History Month, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with rising star Chef Ignacia Valdes, a talented and inspiring figure in the culinary world.

With experience from two Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris and more recently at Frevo in New York City, Chef Valdes has captivated us with her passion for fine dining cooking and dedication to her craft. Join us as we discuss her journey, insights and thoughts on the importance of quality kitchen tools.

Q: What led you to pursue a career as a chef?

Ignacia: "I started cooking at a really young age, influenced by my dad who was the family chef. The more we cooked together, the more I found joy in exploring new ingredients, experimenting with recipes and sharing the results with my loved ones. For me, the creative process of bringing an idea to life in the kitchen is incredibly fulfilling and rewarding."

Q: How important is having a chef's knife and what qualities do you look for in one?

Ignacia: "Having a quality chef's knife is essential for any chef. Cooking with a dull knife is frustrating and inefficient, so a sharp knife is like a trusted companion in the kitchen, as it allows for precise and efficient cooking. When choosing a knife, I prioritize sharpness, durability and ease of sharpening. A knife that holds its edge well and feels comfortable in my hand is important for my daily work."

Q: Which features of the SEKKIN chef's knife stand out to you?

Ignacia: "I'm truly impressed by the SEKKIN knife's thoughtful design and exceptional quality. With its medium height and size, along with the high-quality steel, it has the perfect balance of durability and sharpness, and lasts even during my busiest days in the kitchen. As a professional who relies heavily on my knife for hours on end, I value its ease of sharpening, which keeps it performing at its best. Plus, the wood handle is comfortable and adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen routine."

Q: How does having the right kitchen tools contribute to your cooking process?

Ignacia: "Having the right kitchen tools is crucial for me. The more versatile and adaptive the tools, the better and quicker the results. Chopping with a sharp and balanced knife not only lets me cook faster but also makes the process more enjoyable."

Join us in celebrating Chef Valdes' passion, talent and contributions to the culinary world this Women's History Month!