What is a Food Mill?
A food mill is an essential kitchen tool that has various uses from making delicious sauces to purees and jams. It comprises a hand-cranked device attached to a perforated bottom plate and a bowl to catch the processed food. The size and shape of the holes on the bottom plate determine the coarseness or fineness of the processed food. This essential tool comes in different sizes, from small to large and can be metallic or plastic.
The Best Way to Use a Food Mill
Here are a few tips on the best way to use a food mill:
- Cook your preferred food until tender or soft as needed and allow it to cool to a manageable temperature.
- Pour the cooled food into the top of the food mill while cranking the handle at a constant speed. As you crank, the food mill pushes the food through the holes and drops into the bowl underneath.
- Keep cranking until you have processed the required amount of food. If you want finer texture, pass the processed food through the food mill again until desired texture is achieved.
- Remove any remaining food particles from the mill and discard them. You can then disassemble the mill and clean the different parts.
The Best Foods to Use with a Food Mill
Although a food mill can be used with various foods, some are more suitable than others because of their texture and consistency. Here are the best foods to use with a food mill:
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Apples
- Berries
- Peaches
- Plums
The Best Recipes to Use a Food Mill On
A handy food mill can be useful in many recipes, from baby food to decadent sauces and jams. Here are some of the best recipes:
Baby Food
A food mill is perfect for making homemade baby food as it provides a smooth texture that is easy for babies to swallow. Cook your preferred food to a soft texture, then run it through the food mill, and store in an airtight container.
Marinara Sauce
Use a food mill to make an authentic marinara sauce. Cook canned tomatoes in a pan, then pass them through the food mill to remove the seeds and skin. The result is a mouth-watering, fresh marinara sauce free from any unwanted textures.
Fruit Puree
If you want to make a homemade fruit puree, the food mill is your go-to tool. Cook your preferred fruit, then run it through the mill until you get a smooth texture. You can add sugar and a dash of lemon juice to give your puree an extra zing.
Clean and Store Your Food Mill Properly
Cleaning and storing your food mill are crucial in maintaining their performance and durability. Here are some tips:
- Disassemble the food mill by removing the blade and disk.
- Rinse off any food residue and use a stiff brush to clean hard to reach areas.
- Wash the food mill and its components with hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid using a dishwasher as some mills have sharp edges that may damage other kitchen items.
- Store the food mill and its components in a dry place away from moisture and heat.
