What is a food mill?
A food mill is a kitchen tool used for grinding and straining foods. It consists of a bowl, a rotating paddle with sharp metal blades, and a bottom plate with small holes or perforations. As the paddle rotates, the food is crushed and forced through the holes in the bottom plate, creating a smooth puree or sauce while removing any seeds, skins, or solids.
Recipes that require the use of a food mill
There are several recipes that benefit from using a food mill. Here are some of the most common:
Tomato sauce
To make a smooth and velvety tomato sauce, it is essential to remove the seeds and skins. After simmering the tomatoes with aromatics, the mixture is passed through a food mill to create a smooth sauce.
Mashed potatoes
A food mill is a great way to make creamy and lump-free mashed potatoes. After cooking the potatoes, they can be passed through the food mill for a smooth and consistent texture.
Applesauce
When making applesauce, it is essential to remove the tough skin and core. A food mill can help easily separate the flesh from the unwanted parts to create a silky and flavorful applesauce.
Baby food
Homemade baby food is an excellent way to ensure that babies are getting fresh and nutritious meals. A food mill can be used to puree soft fruits and vegetables, ensuring that the texture is safe for babies to consume.
Jam and jelly
When making jams and jellies, it is crucial to remove the seeds and skins to create a smooth and spreadable texture. By passing the cooked fruit through a food mill, the resulting jam or jelly will be free of unwanted solids.
