Bushra Griffith
A tiny 3-sided cheese grater is a handy kitchen tool that allows you to grate cheese and other ingredients in different ways. Each side of the grater serves a specific purpose, depending on the size and type of holes. The side with larger holes is ideal for grating semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, while the smaller holes are meant for harder cheeses like Parmesan, creating finer strands. The third side, with tiny punched-out holes, is perfect for zesting citrus fruits or very finely grating ingredients like nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. Knowing how to use each side of your 3-sided cheese grater will help you achieve the desired consistency for your ingredients and expand your culinary possibilities beyond just shredding cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of sides | 4 |
| Purpose | Grating cheese and other ingredients |
| Sides | Two sides with holes for straightforward grating, one side for slicing, and one side for zesting or very fine grating |
| Use | Grating semi-hard and hard cheeses, grating nutmeg and cinnamon, zesting citrus fruits, grating garlic and ginger, grating chocolate, grating vegetables, softening butter, separating leaves from stems of herbs |
| Prevent cheese from sticking | Lightly spray or brush the holes with oil before grating |
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What You'll Learn
Grating semi-hard and hard cheeses
The side with the largest holes is the one you will use most often for grating semi-hard and hard cheeses. This is the side you will use to grate hard cheeses like cheddar, and semi-hard cheeses like mozzarella.
The side with the smallest holes will produce the finest strands of cheese. This side is used to replicate the pre-grated hard cheese sold in plastic tubs or cardboard cans at the grocery store. It produces a consistency so fine that the cheese easily dissolves into salad dressings, sauces, and casseroles. This side is also used to grate nutmeg and zest citrus.
The third side of the grater is meant for slicing. It is not as effective as a mandoline or sharp knife, but it works well for making quick slices of semi-hard and hard cheeses when you want to garnish a pasta dish or salad with evenly thick shavings of cheese.
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Grating chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices
A tiny 3-sided cheese grater can be used to grate chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices. Here are some tips for using it for these ingredients:
Grating Chocolate
When grating chocolate, it is important to ensure that it is firm but not frozen. If the chocolate is soft, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before grating. Use a firm grip on the grater and hold it on a flat surface or angle it over a bowl. Gently slide the chocolate down the surface of the grater, working slowly to avoid injuring your fingers. The size of the holes on the grater will determine the texture of the grated chocolate, with fine or coarse holes resulting in different textures. A microplane grater is ideal for achieving finer shavings. Grated chocolate can be used in a variety of ways, such as sprinkling over desserts, beverages, or as a decorative topping. If not used immediately, store grated chocolate in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or in the fridge.
Grating Nutmeg
To grate nutmeg, use the smallest holes on the grater, which produce the finest strands. You can also use a microplane grater or a nutmeg grinder. Before grating, crack open the nutmeg shell on a cutting board by pressing down hard with a large knife or heavy pan. Peel away the shell and then finely grate the nutmeg seed at a 45-degree angle to expose more of the nutmeg to the blades and avoid cutting your fingers. Grate only as much nutmeg as you need, as stored grated nutmeg can lose its flavor. Freshly grated nutmeg can be added to a variety of dishes, such as pasta sauces, meat dishes, or braised vegetables.
Grating Cinnamon
The smallest holes on the grater can also be used for grating cinnamon sticks into a fine powder. Alternatively, a microplane grater can be used for a similar result. Grated cinnamon can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, such as baked goods, beverages, or savory dishes.
Other Spices
In addition to nutmeg and cinnamon, a tiny 3-sided cheese grater can be used to grate a variety of other spices. Whole dried spices such as cloves, cardamom pods, or allspice berries can be grated into a fine powder using the smallest holes on the grater. Fresh or dried ginger root can also be grated, adding a spicy kick to dishes. When grating spices, it is important to use a gentle touch to avoid breaking the spice and causing it to fly off in different directions.
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Zesting citrus fruits
A tiny 3-sided cheese grater can be used for more than just grating cheese. One of its sides, the one with the smallest holes, can be used to zest citrus fruits.
To zest a citrus fruit, such as a lemon, lime, or orange, first wash the fruit to remove any wax, dirt, or pesticide residue. Then, using the side of the grater with the smallest holes, lightly drag the fruit down the surface, rotating as soon as you expose the white layer, or pith, to avoid a bitter taste. You can also use a knife to zest the bright, colourful skin of the fruit, being careful to avoid the bitter white layer beneath.
Zest can be used to add a bright, citrusy flavour to a variety of dishes, including sauces, soups, salads, desserts, and cocktails. It can be stored in the freezer or a jar on the shelf, ready to be used as a flavour enhancer.
While a tiny 3-sided cheese grater can be used for zesting, a dedicated zester or Microplane may be a worthwhile investment for those who frequently cook with citrus zest, as they produce finer results.
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Grating garlic, ginger, and other small, hard foods
A tiny 3-sided cheese grater is a versatile tool that can be used for grating various ingredients, including garlic, ginger, and other small, hard foods. Here are some tips for using it effectively for these purposes:
Grating Garlic
To grate garlic, use the side of the grater with smaller holes. This will help you achieve a fine dice or a paste-like consistency, perfect for cooking evenly and adding flavour to your dishes. The tiny grater will quickly transform garlic cloves into a consistent texture, enhancing the taste of your meals.
Grating Ginger
The sharp, tiny rectangular metal teeth of a 3-sided cheese grater are ideal for cutting through the fibrous ginger root. It efficiently breaks down the fibres, resulting in a smooth puree or grate without detectable fibres in your dish. This method is faster and creates less waste compared to a ceramic grater. You can also use a rasp grater or a Microplane ginger tool, specifically designed for grating ginger.
Grating Other Small, Hard Foods
In addition to garlic and ginger, your 3-sided cheese grater can tackle other small, hard foods. You can grate citrus zest, hard cheeses, nutmeg, cinnamon, and even break down other spices. For a finer grate, use the side with smaller holes. This works well for hard ingredients like chocolate, carrots, and nuts.
Remember to always exercise caution when using a grater to protect your fingers, especially when dealing with small, hard foods that may require more pressure to grate.
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Slicing vegetables
A box grater is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for much more than shredding cheese. One of its sides, characterised by long, thin openings, is designed for creating thin, uniform slices of various foods. This makes it ideal for slicing vegetables. Here's how you can use a tiny 3-sided cheese grater for slicing vegetables:
Choosing the Right Side
The slicing side of a box grater is typically characterised by long, thin openings or wide horizontal slots. This side is designed for creating thin, uniform slices. If your grater has four sides, it is likely that one of the sides is intended for slicing.
Preparing the Vegetables
Before using the grater, choose vegetables that are firm and not too large for the slicing slots. You may need to cut larger vegetables, like potatoes, in half to fit them into the slots. Common vegetables that can be sliced with a grater include cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
Slicing Technique
Hold the grater firmly with one hand and the vegetable with the other. Gently slide the vegetable down the slicing side of the grater, applying light pressure. The vegetable will be cut into thin, uniform slices as it passes through the openings. Continue this motion until you have sliced the desired amount of vegetables.
Safety and Cleaning
Always use caution when handling a grater to avoid accidentally grating your fingers or knuckles. The slicing side may not be as sharp as a knife, but it can still cause injury if used carelessly. Additionally, some graters are easier to clean than others. Make sure to clean your grater promptly after use to prevent food residue from drying and sticking to the surface.
A tiny 3-sided cheese grater may have limited functionality compared to a 4-sided grater, but it can still be useful for certain tasks, like slicing vegetables. By understanding the purpose of each side and using the appropriate techniques, you can utilise your tiny 3-sided cheese grater effectively in the kitchen.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use it to grate hard cheeses, such as Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago.
Place the cheese against the tiny holes on the grater and gently rub it against the holes to create fine strands of cheese.
Yes, you can use it to grate spices, nuts, and citrus zest. You can also use it to finely grate ginger, garlic, and chocolate.
Soft cheeses, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, are not suitable for this grater as they will fall apart and create a mess.
Wash the grater immediately after use with hot, soapy water and a brush or abrasive sponge. If cheese has hardened on the grater, soak it overnight in soapy water or run it through the dishwasher.
