A Paring Knife is a small Kitchen Knife
with a plain-edge blade that is ideal for peeling and other small or intricate
work (such as de-veining a shrimp, removing the seeds from a jalapeño, or
cutting small garnishes). It is designed to be an all-purpose knife, similar to
a Chef's Knife, except smaller. Paring knives are usually between 2½ and 4
inches. Anything larger than about 4 or 5 inches is typically considered a Utility Knife, although the distinction is somewhat vague.