Using a Mandoline Slicer for Grating Cheese: Yes or No?
If you love to cook, you have probably heard of a mandoline slicer – a versatile kitchen tool that allows you to slice vegetables, fruits, and even meats with ease. But what about using it for grating cheese? Is it possible, and more importantly, is it safe? Let’s find out.
Using a Mandoline Slicer for Grating Cheese: Pros and Cons
First, let’s weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a mandoline slicer for cheese. One advantage is that you can achieve uniform and thin shreds of cheese, which can be great for melting and incorporating into dishes like quesadillas, mac and cheese, or salads. Another benefit is that it can save you time compared to grating cheese manually with a box grater.
However, there are also some downsides to using a mandoline slicer for cheese. One of the main concerns is safety – mandoline slicers have sharp blades that can easily cut your fingers if you’re not careful, especially when you’re holding a small piece of cheese. Another issue is that the cheese can sometimes stick to the slicer and be difficult to remove, which can slow down the process.
How to Safely and Effectively Use a Mandoline Slicer for Grating Cheese
Assuming you’ve decided to take the risk and try using a mandoline slicer for cheese, here are some tips to ensure that you do it safely and effectively:
- Use a dedicated cheese blade if your mandoline slicer has one. This can help prevent the cheese from sticking and allow you to get the best results.
- Use a cut-resistant glove to protect your hand while you hold the cheese. This is especially important if you’re new to using a mandoline slicer or if you’re working with a small piece of cheese.
- Cut the cheese block into smaller pieces that fit comfortably on the slicer and won’t require too much pressure to push through.
- Place a cutting board or a tray under the slicer to catch the cheese as it falls off.
- Clean the slicer thoroughly after each use to prevent any cheese residue from getting stuck in the blades.
The Bottom Line: Is Using a Mandoline Slicer for Grating Cheese Worth It?
In the end, whether you should use a mandoline slicer for grating cheese depends on your own comfort level with the tool and your cooking needs. If you’re used to using a mandoline slicer and feel confident in your ability to handle it safely, then go ahead and give it a try. Just remember to follow the tips above and be careful. On the other hand, if you don’t feel comfortable using a mandoline slicer for cheese, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to a good old-fashioned box grater.
Alternatives to Using a Mandoline Slicer for Grating Cheese
If you decide that using a mandoline slicer for cheese is not for you, there are other options available. One popular alternative is a rotary cheese grater, which allows you to grate cheese with minimal effort and maximum safety. Another option is to simply use a box grater, which is not only easy to use but also easy to clean.
