How To Choose A Spice Grinder

Grinding whole spices and nuts just before use ensures optimal flavor and aroma. Originally, electric blade grinders were meant to grind coffee. Grinding both spices and coffee in one machine isn’t a good idea -- unless you like the idea of cumin-scented java. But peek into almost any restaurant kitchen and you’ll discover that chefs use these handy little machines for grinding spices instead.

Spice Grinders & Nut Choppers

When it comes to depth of flavor, ground spices from a jar just can’t compete with freshly ground whole spices.  We recently decided to investigate which electric blade coffee grinders adapt best to the task of grinding spices. Some grinders simply can’t handle the small quantities of spices that recipes often call for.

Some grinders’ blades aren’t sharp enough to swiftly crush hard spices, like peppercorns.
For our tests, we ground fennel, coriander, and cumin seeds in increments of 1 teaspoon, 1 tablespoon, and 2 tablespoons. We also ground dried ancho chiles, cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, peppercorns, and a mix of whole spices to yield 1/4 cup curry powder.

No matter what method you use to grind them, almost all spices can benefit from a slight toasting before grinding to bring out their flavors. Cast iron works well. Heat the pan gently over medium heat, add spices and give the pan a shake. Toast for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully that nothing browns or burns. You will smell the spices releasing their natural oils.

How to choose a spice grinder :

1. Decide what you want to use the grinder for. Spice grinders are excellent tools for extracting the maximum amount of flavor from whole spices while, nut grinders effortlessly grind nuts into even pieces.  Some heavy duty spice grinders can accommodate firmer items, such as nuts, without a problem, while others are best for delicate operations.

2. Choose whether electric is best or a hand grinder. Many spices are much smaller than the average coffee bean, and you're likely to be grinding fewer spices than beans at any given time. There are a variety of spice grinders on the market to choose from. The electric ones are the fastest and easiest on the muscles. However, if you're grinding spices at the table when you serve, you'll want a hand grinder.

3. Find the spice grinder that is the best fit in your price range. Some spice grinders will range over $100 dollars and others around $10. The more expensive ones are usually multipurpose and can grind a variety of items.

Top pick Spice Grinder

• DeLonghi Aromatic Coffee Grinder  Model DCG39, $29.95

This grinder excelled at grinding just about every spice type, quantity, and blend we tested. It ground spices speedily and to an exceptionally fine, even consistency. It’s extremely quiet, excellent at pulsing (quick to rev up and quick to stop), and doesn’t leak.

• GENERIC SILVER Four Piece NEW STYLE 2 1/4" Herb, Spice or Tobacco Pollen Grinder  $8.95

 You can actually see your reflection on it. Well I only been using it a few days but for 5 bucks and change I am never going to go without one of this and I can't wait to get some of my kief. Good quality item and for the price you can't beat it. The magnet actually is fairly strong too you can hold the item just by the magnets force alone.