Flaxseed is a nutritious food that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber. In order to fully absorb the nutrients contained in flaxseeds, you must first grind them before eating them. Flaxseeds can be ground by hand or by machine (this is easier to do). Whichever method you use, you can have ground flaxseed in a few minutes.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Grinding by Hand
Step 1. Grind the flaxseeds using a grinder so you can do this easily and quickly
This is a flax grinder similar to a coffee grinder. Open the lid and insert the flaxseed into the hole provided at the top. Position the flax grinder on a plate or bowl. Next, grind the flaxseed by turning the top clockwise. You can get 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of ground flaxseed in no more than half a minute.
- Additionally, you can use this grinder to sprinkle ground flaxseed on top of salads or smoothies.
- If you don't use flaxseed often, you shouldn't buy this tool.
Step 2. Use a spice or pepper grinder as a less expensive option
Open the lid of the spice grinder, then add 1-2 tbsp. (15-30 grams) flaxseed. Put the lid back on and turn the crank for 1 to 5 minutes until the flaxseeds are smooth to the desired size.
- The flaxseed powder will fall down neatly. So you can hold the grinder over food or containers.
- This method takes a long time. If your hands or wrists get tired, rest for 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 3. Try using a mortar and pestle to grind the flaxseeds
In this way, you can grind 1 tbsp. (15 grams) to 1 cup (250 grams) flaxseeds at a time. Put the flaxseeds in a mortar (which looks like a bowl). Next, use a pestle (a stick-like spice grinder) to grind the flaxseeds. Press the pestle on the flaxseed to grind it. Keep doing this for 3 to 5 minutes until you get flaxseed powder of the desired fineness.
Mortar and pestle are generally made of stone or marble. The heavy stone is perfect for grinding flaxseed
Method 2 of 3: Using Electronic Machines
Step 1. Try using a coffee grinder as a quick and effective option
Place 1 cup (250 grams) of flaxseed or less at a time in a coffee grinder. Grind the flaxseeds for 10 to 15 seconds using the finer grind setting. This is an easy way to add nutrients from flaxseed to your diet.
- Clean the coffee grinder after you finish grinding the flaxseeds.
- Do not put flaxseed into the grinder beyond the maximum allowable line. The coffee grinder can be damaged if you do this.
Step 2. Try using a food processor if you only need coarsely ground flaxseed
Food processors can grind 1 to 3 cups (250-700 grams) of flaxseed at a time. Put the flaxseeds in it, then set it to the finer grind setting, and grind the seeds for 5 to 15 minutes until you get the size you want. When grinding the seeds, open the lid periodically and use a spoon to stir the flaxseeds to make grinding easier.
Although easy to do, this method takes more time than other methods
Step 3. Grind the flaxseeds using a blender as an easy-to-do home option
Pour about 250 grams of flaxseed into a blender. You can use a measuring cup or measure the amount. Put the lid on, and use the finer grind setting on the blender. Grind the flaxseeds for 3 to 10 minutes until they reach the desired size.
Once mashed, put the ground flaxseed in a bowl or jar for easy use
Method 3 of 3: Storing Flax Seeds
Step 1. Store whole flaxseeds at room temperature for up to 1 year
To save money, buy whole flaxseeds at the grocery or grocery store in bulk. After that, you can store it at room temperature for up to 1 year. Grind flaxseeds in small amounts as needed.
To get fresh flaxseeds, buy new flaxseeds every 2 to 3 months
Step 2. Put the flaxseed powder in an airtight container
Once ground, place the ground flaxseed in a glass jar or plastic Tupperware container. Tighten the lid so that no air can damage the powder.
Step 3. Store flaxseed powder in the refrigerator for up to 7 days
Flaxseeds should be used immediately so that the nutrients can be absorbed optimally. However, you can store ground flaxseed in the refrigerator for a few days.
If the flaxseed powder tastes bitter, you should throw it away immediately because the powder has spoiled. Flaxseeds should taste like nuts and have a slightly earthy smell
Tips
- For maximum nutrition, grind flaxseeds before you use them.
- Alternate yellow or brown flaxseeds when you cook or bake. Both have the same taste.
- You can buy ground flaxseed at the grocery store, but you can save money by grinding it yourself.
- Flaxseeds are commonly added to cereals and smoothies for added nutrition.
- If you don't like eggs, use flaxseed powder mixed with water instead of eggs in many recipes.
