EQUIPMENT KNOWLEDGE · PREPARATION TOOLS

Microplane Grater

A fine rasp-style grater uses very sharp small teeth to shave ingredients into delicate particles without the crushing produced by some traditional graters.

Best Uses

Citrus zest, Parmesan and other hard cheeses, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate, horseradish, and fine finishing garnishes.

What to Look For

• Sharp etched teeth.
• A comfortable nonslip handle.
• A protective storage cover.
• A grating area long enough for efficient strokes.

Correct Use

Use light pressure and long strokes. For citrus, remove only the coloured aromatic zest when the bitter white pith is not desired.

Care & Maintenance

Rinse immediately after sticky aromatics and clean from the safe reverse side. Protect the teeth in storage.

Common Mistakes

• Pressing too hard and clogging the teeth.
• Zesting deeply into citrus pith.
• Running fingertips across the grating surface during cleaning.

Chef’s Notes

A rasp grater is a finishing tool as much as a prep tool. Its fine particles release aroma rapidly and distribute evenly across a dish.

Related Equipment

Box grater, citrus juicer, vegetable peeler, zester, and mixing bowls.