Understanding the difference between a food mill and a ricer
If you’re a lover of mashed potatoes, tomato sauce, apple sauce, or any other pureed foods, you’ve probably heard of a food mill and a ricer. While they have similar functions, they also come with some key differences. Here’s what you need to know:
What is a food mill?
A food mill is a kitchen gadget that is primarily used for making pureed foods. It consists of a bowl, a hand crank, and a strainer that’s attached to the bottom of the bowl. The food is placed in the bowl, and when the hand crank is turned, the food is forced through the strainer and into a separate container. What you’re left with is a smooth and consistent puree without any chunks or skins.
What is a ricer?
A ricer is a simple kitchen gadget that is used to mash potatoes, fruits, and vegetables. It typically consists of a hopper, a handle, and a perforated disk. You place the food in the hopper, and when you push down on the handle, the food is forced through the perforated disk. The end result is a light and fluffy puree that’s perfect for mashed potatoes.
The key differences between a food mill and a ricer
While both a food mill and a ricer are used for pureeing foods, they have some key differences:
A food mill is better for large batches of food
One of the biggest differences between a food mill and a ricer is that a food mill is better for handling large batches of food. Because a food mill is powered by a hand crank, it’s easier to handle large amounts of food. A ricer, on the other hand, is better for small batches.
Food mills produce a smoother texture
Another key difference between a food mill and a ricer is the texture of the end product. A food mill produces a smoother puree with a consistent texture, while a ricer produces a fluffier puree with a slightly chunky texture. This makes a food mill ideal for sauces and baby food, while a ricer is better for mashed potatoes and other side dishes.
In summary, both a food mill and a ricer can be useful tools in your kitchen, but they are designed for different purposes. If you’re looking for a gadget to help you make large batches of smooth purees, a food mill is your best bet. If you’re more interested in making fluffy mashed potatoes, a ricer would be a better fit for your needs.
