A cooking utensil is a tool used in the preparation and serving of food. Common examples include spoons, spatulas, knives, and whisks. These utensils help in mixing, measuring, cutting, and serving ingredients, making the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable. Cooking utensils can be made from various materials, such as stainless steel, wood, silicone, and plastic. Each material has its advantages; for instance, stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while wood is gentle on cookware surfaces. Proper care and maintenance of these utensils can enhance their longevity and performance in the kitchen.