The Microplane Grater

The classic image of the waiter at tableside grating cheese is what comes to mind when I hear the words microplane grater, but there are more uses for this finessed kitchen tool. The microplaner comes in many shapes and sizes each designed for a different application. The narrow shape of some microplanes allow the shavings to be more accurately directed to its target. Some planers are wider for larger volume or grating larger ingredients. Some have a fine mesh grating surface designed to create a finer powdered product and some have wider slits designed to create elongated shavings. Here are some ideas on how you might use the microplaer.

A common use is for zesting citrus. It creates fine lemon/lime/orange shavings. The larger slitted planer can be used to create citrus rinds for drink garnish as an example.

 

A classic french use for the microplaner is for grating nutmeg. A pinch of nutmeg can be created by rubbing a nutmeg acorn against the grater a few times. The same can be done with cinnamon. Use the microplane to add a touch of cinnamon to a cappuccino or to top a dessert.

Another great use is to create delicate chocolate shavings for garnish. I like making an espresso panna cotta served in martini glasses. The chocolate shavings are a perfect touch to add refinement to the presentation

Zesting garlic is another use for the microplane. It allows for the super fine shaving of garlic that create subtle flavor without a noticeable

texture or mouthfeel.


As you can see, there are lots of uses for the microplaner. It's a simple, yet versatile tool that is a nice addition to any cook's toolbox.