Flaxseeds are a nutritious food, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and fiber. To ensure that the body is able to absorb these beneficial substances, they must be ground before consuming them. You can shred them by hand or even more easily using an electronic grinder. Whatever the method used, it will only take a few minutes to guarantee you all the beneficial properties of flax seeds.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Grind the Flax Seeds Manually
Step 1. The simplest and quickest solution is to use a semi manual grinder
It is a coffee-like grinder designed to grind seeds. Remove the lid and pour the flax seeds into the top compartment. Place the grinder on top of a plate or bowl, then simply turn the crank clockwise to begin grinding. You should be able to grind a tablespoon (15g) of seeds in less than thirty seconds.
- You can grind flax seeds directly on top of a salad or smoothie.
- A manual seed grinder costs around 30 euros, so it's only worth buying if you plan to use flax seeds quite often.
Step 2. Use a spice grinder or pepper grinder if you don't want to buy a special one for seeds
Again, remove the top lid and pour 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 g) of flaxseed into it. Close it and turn the crank for a few minutes until they are ground as you like.
- Once reduced to a powder, the flax seeds will fall from the bottom of the grinder, so keep it on top of your plate or container to store them.
- This method does not require an investment in economic terms, but it does require more time. When your arm begins to tire, take a 30-60 second break.
Step 3. Try using a mortar and pestle to finely grind the flax seeds
With this technique you can grind 15 to 250 g of seeds in one go. Pour them into the mortar and start grinding them to a powder with the pestle. Move it in a circular direction by pressing it against the bottom and walls. You can also point the pestle at a specific point in the mortar and rotate it left and right over the seeds. Continue like this for 3-5 minutes, until they are as ground as you like.
Normally, the mortar and pestle are made of marble or stone, the weight of which helps to crush the seeds
Method 2 of 3: Grind Flax Seeds with a Small Kitchen Appliance
Step 1. Use an electric coffee grinder for a quick and effective solution
Weigh 200-250 g of flax seeds at a time and pour them into the grinder. Select the finest grind available and turn it on for 10-15 seconds. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of flaxseed without putting too much effort.
- When you are done remember to clean the utensil.
- Do not exceed the maximum capacity line of the grinder, otherwise you could damage it.
Step 2. Use a food processor if you don't need to get a very fine powder
In this case, you can grind 250-700g of flaxseed at a time. Pour them into the robot, select the most suitable mode and speed (check the instruction booklet) and start it. Turn it off from time to time, remove the lid and stir the seeds with a spoon to bring them closer to the blades. It will take about 5-15 minutes to get a coarse powder.
This method is quite effective, but it takes a lot more time than the others
Step 3. Use a blender
Pour 250 g of flax seeds into the glass, you can weigh them with the scale or measure them by eye. Secure the lid and select the most suitable operating mode (check the instruction booklet). Blend the seeds for 3 to 10 minutes until they are ground as desired.
After grinding them, you can transfer them to a jar or bowl for more convenient use
Method 3 of 3: Storing the Flax Seeds
Step 1. At room temperature they will keep fresh for up to a year
The cheapest solution is to buy a large quantity to save on the price. You can keep them in the kitchen pantry for up to twelve months and grind a few at a time when you need them.
Although they keep for a long time, it is best to consume them within 2-3 months to make sure they keep all their properties intact
Step 2. After grinding them, store them in an airtight container
Once they are powdered, transfer them to a glass jar or Tupperware-type food container. Seal it with the lid to protect them from moisture and prevent them from rotting.
Step 3. Place the container in the refrigerator and use the ground flax seeds within a week
After powdering them it is best to use them immediately to allow the body to absorb as much nutrients as possible. If you haven't consumed all of them, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to seven days.
If in the following days you notice that they have taken on a bitter taste, it means that they have gone bad and you must throw them away. Their natural flavor is basically neutral with a nutty aftertaste
Advice
- In order for the body to absorb as much nutrients as possible, it is best to grind the seeds just before using them.
- Flax seeds can be either light (or golden) or dark. Both have a similar taste and the same properties, but the light ones are more oily so they are more suitable for cooking.
- If you don't eat eggs, you can use ground flax seeds mixed with water as their substitute when cooking.
- You can find powdered flaxseed on the market, but grinding them at home is much cheaper.
- Add flaxseed to cereals or a smoothie at breakfast time to fill up on beneficial nutrients.
