A microplane is one of those kitchen utensils that you don’t even know you need until you have one – and then you’re not sure how you ever lived without it! For those of you who cook with fresh fruits on a regular basis, making some delectable smoothies, desserts and garnishes has never been so easy than it is with a microplane. This grater box substitute is easier to handle, not to mention more versatile when it comes to grabbing the zest from citrus fruits. What’s better? We’ve found some uses for it that may come in handy in the kitchen!
Cheese
That’s right, it’s time to toss that bulky, awkward cheese grater that’s collecting cobwebs in the cabinet. Relieved? If you’re like most people, you didn’t use it much anyway, since it always somehow cut your knuckles to bits. The microplane is your solution for grating tough cheeses, like Pecorino Romano, for a taste Italian pasta.
Seeds and Nuts
The microplane can actually very finely crush up nuts and seeds, making it the perfect option for when you’re wanting a light little topping for a bowl of yogurt, a salad, or to thicken up a soup with a sweet taste. To make the powder a little sweeter, candy the nut before taking the microplane to it, and sprinkle the sweet dust on top of your favorite ice cream!
Ginger
Ginger is one of those roots that’s super tasty and useful, but just as potent. A little goes a long way. Until now, there’s not really been a great way to incorporate it into uncooked meals, like salads. Microplane some ginger root, and see little flecks and shavings from the root float down to the salad for the perfect subtle flavor for supporting taste.
Garlic
People try to make garlic so complicated… they say you need a special utensil just for pressing garlic? We say it’s not necessary. If you have your versatile microplane, simple peel the garlic and rub it on the microplane grates for some perfectly minced garlic!
Chocolate
While we love chunks of chocolate anytime, there’s just something about some delicate, thin shavings that sit lightly on top of our favorite decadent dessert, like cheesecake. The thin little morsels just melt in the mouth and add a burst of sweetness to every bite! How do you get those perfect little flecks? Throw the chocolate on the microplane, of course!
Are you convinced yet? The microplane is for way more than just citrus! Try it for chocolate, garlic, ginger, seeds, nuts and cheese for great results!
