Graters Guide
Material quality
Graters made from high-quality materials are not only more durable but also provide better performance. One example of a grater with excellent material quality is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater. It is constructed with surgical-grade stainless steel, which not only ensures its durability but also allows for effortless grating with its ultra-sharp blades. Another great option is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which features a stainless steel grating surface that stays sharp and doesn't rust over time. The grater also has a soft, non-slip handle for comfortable use. When considering material quality, opting for graters made from high-quality stainless steel or other durable metals is recommended for long-lasting performance.
Blade sharpness
A sharp blade ensures effortless and efficient grating, allowing you to quickly and easily shred vegetables, grate cheese, or zest citrus fruits. Look for graters with high-quality stainless steel blades, as they are known to provide exceptional sharpness and longevity.
There are various products on the market that are well-known for their blade sharpness. For fine grating, Microplane Classic Series Zester/Grater offers razor-sharp edges that effortlessly tackle ingredients like ginger, chocolate, or nutmeg. For coarse grating tasks, consider the OXO Good Grips Box Grater with sharp stainless steel blades that grate onions, potatoes, or hard cheeses with ease. Additionally, if you prefer versatile options, a 4-in-1 box grater like the Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater boasts ultra-sharp blades on all sides for fine, coarse, ribbon, or slicer grating. Remember, opting for graters with sharper blades is key for efficient and precise grating.
Ease of use
Look for graters that have comfortable handles and are ergonomically designed to make grating effortless and comfortable. For instance, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater features a soft, non-slip handle that provides a comfortable grip, while its sharp stainless steel blades are perfect for quickly grating vegetables, cheeses, and more. Another option to consider is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester/Grater, which is designed with a comfortable soft-touch handle and razor-sharp stainless steel blades, allowing you to effortlessly zest citrus fruits or grate hard cheeses. Remember, the easier it is to use the grater, the more enjoyable and efficient your experience will be in the kitchen.
Grip handle
A good grater should have a comfortable and secure grip handle that allows for effortless operation while minimizing the risk of slips and accidents. One notable product that satisfies these criteria is the Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater. It features an ergonomic handle that offers a firm and comfortable grip, allowing for effortless grating. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Etched Box Grater, which is equipped with a non-slip handle that ensures stability during use. Both of these graters provide a user-friendly grip handle that enhances tool maneuverability and safety.
Durability
You want a grater that can withstand regular use and maintain its performance over time. One example of a durable grater is the Microplane Professional Series grater, which is made with stainless steel blades that are designed to stay sharp even after repeated use. Additionally, it features a soft-touch handle for a comfortable grip and a sturdy frame for added durability. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, with a stainless steel construction that ensures long-lasting durability. It also has a non-slip handle and base for added stability during use. Both of these graters are known for their durability and are popular choices among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
Versatility
One example of a highly versatile grater is the Microplane Elite Series Grater. This grater is designed with ultra-sharp, photo-etched blades, which effortlessly tackle ingredients such as hard cheeses, spices, vegetables, and even chocolate. Another excellent option to consider is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which offers four different cutting options - from fine to coarse grating, as well as slicing and a handy zesting surface. Its sharp stainless steel blades ensure precision and durability, making it a versatile and durable choice for your kitchen needs.
Size/Dimensions
Apart from your personal kitchen space, the size of the grater will also determine its practicality and efficiency. larger-sized graters are more suitable for larger tasks, such as grating larger blocks of cheese or vegetables. An example of a larger-sized grater is the Microplane Elite Large Grater, which features a grating surface that measures 5.25 by 2.5 inches, ideal for quickly grating larger quantities of food. On the other hand, smaller-sized graters are more versatile and convenient for everyday use. Slimmer graters, such as the OXO Good Grips Slim Box Grater, are space-saving and easy to store, making them perfect for smaller kitchens or for those who prefer to hand grate small amounts of ingredients. The compact size also allows for more control and precision during use. By considering the size and dimensions of a grater, you can ensure you select the one that best suits your needs and kitchen setup.
Weight
A heavy grater can be more stable and easier to handle, allowing for a better grating experience. However, a lighter grater may be more convenient for those who have less strength or who prefer to grate directly over their cooking surface. It's also worth noting that a lightweight grater might be easier to store and transport.
For those looking for a heavy-duty option, the Microplane 46720 Premium Classic Series Zester Grater weighs 9.6 ounces and is made with a stainless steel frame that provides sturdiness and durability while grating various ingredients. On the other hand, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater is a lightweight alternative, weighing only 9.6 ounces. This grater combines a slim design with a comfortable non-slip grip handle, making it easy to control and use without causing strain.
In the market, graters generally fall into two weight categories, heavy-duty and lightweight alternatives. Some heavy-duty graters worth considering include the Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Boxed Grater (14.4 ounces) and the RÖSLE 95027 Fine Grater (14.1 ounces). For a lightweight option, the KitchenAid Gourmet 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater (10.1 ounces) and the Chef'n FreshForce Tabletop Stainless Steel Cheese Grater (7.2 ounces) are great choices.
Dishwasher safe
Dishwasher safe graters are designed to withstand high temperatures and rigorous cycles, ensuring that they can be cleaned thoroughly without the risk of damage. One excellent example of a dishwasher safe grater is the Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater. It is designed with stainless steel blades that stay sharp over time and can grate everything from cheese to citrus zest. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, featuring sharp stainless steel blades and a convenient removable container for catching and measuring the grated ingredients. These graters are not only efficient but also dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze.
Rust resistance
Rust can not only affect the appearance of the grater, but it can also contaminate the food you are grating. Look for graters made of materials that are specifically resistant to rust, such as stainless steel. Stainless steel graters are known for their rust resistance and durability, making them an excellent choice for long-term use. An example of a rust-resistant grater is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater. Made from surgical-grade stainless steel, this grater is designed to resist rust and maintain its sharpness over time. Similarly, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater features stainless steel blades that have been acid-etched for extra sharpness and rust resistance.
Other options for rust-resistant graters include ceramic graters, which are naturally rust-free. The Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Grater is a great example of a ceramic-based grater that offers excellent rust resistance. Additionally, there are graters with non-stick coatings that prevent rust from occurring. The Fine Grater with Non-Stick Coating from Westmark is a perfect showcase of a non-stick grater that boasts rust resistance. Remember, choosing a grater with excellent rust resistance will ensure both its longevity and safe food preparation.
Ease of cleaning
Look for graters that are dishwasher safe or have a removable dishwasher safe part, making cleanup a breeze. Manufacturing materials also play a role in cleaning, as stainless steel graters are typically rust-resistant and dishwasher safe. The OXO Good Grips Box Grater is an excellent example of an easy-to-clean grater, as it features sharp stainless steel blades and a detachable storage container for grated ingredients. Another option is the Microplane Elite Box Grater, which boasts large grating surfaces and a removable base for easy cleaning.
Segmenting graters by type, handheld graters like the Microplane Classic Zester/Grater are compact and easily fit into a dishwasher. Rotary graters like the Kuuk Drum Grater typically come with removable parts that are dishwasher safe, allowing for effortless cleaning. Box graters like the popular OXO Good Grips 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater often have a detachable base or storage container that simplifies cleaning.
Grip stability
A grater with a stable grip ensures that you have full control during use, preventing slips or accidents. Look for graters that feature ergonomic handles with non-slip materials such as silicone or rubber.
One example of a grater with excellent grip stability is the Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater. It comes with a soft-grip handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which features a non-slip handle that stays in place even when wet. Grouping the graters based on their type, you can also consider rotary graters like the ZYLISS Classic Rotary Cheese Grater or box graters such as the Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Boxed Grater, which both offer stable grips for effortless grating.
Safety features
One key factor is the presence of a protective cover or blade guard. This feature helps to prevent accidental cuts or injuries when the grater is stored or not in use. The Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater is a great example as it comes with a transparent cover to protect the sharp stainless steel blade. Additionally, some graters feature a soft-grip handle for a secure and comfortable grip, reducing the risk of slips. The OXO Good Grips Box Grater is an excellent option in this category, offering a comfortable and non-slip handle to ensure stability while grating. Another important safety aspect to consider is the stability of the grater. Look for graters with non-slip bases or rubberized feet to prevent it from sliding or moving during use, like the Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater which features a non-slip base for stability. Overall, these safety features contribute to a more risk-free grating experience.
Surface area for grating
This determines how much food can be grated in one go, saving time and effort in the kitchen. The Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater is an excellent choice with its large surface area that allows for quick grating of cheese, citrus fruits, spices, and more. It features a razor-sharp stainless steel blade that effortlessly grates foods with precision. Another option is The OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which not only has a large grating surface but also offers different textures such as coarse and fine, allowing for versatile grating tasks. Its soft, non-slip grip handle provides comfortable control during usage. For those looking for a multi-purpose grater, The Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Boxed Grater is a great choice, featuring a six-sided design with various grating surfaces including shredding, grating, and slicing.
Blade efficiency
The quality of the blades will determine how effectively and efficiently they can grate and shred ingredients. Look for graters with sharp, stainless steel blades that can tackle various textures without dulling easily. For example, the 'Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester/Grater' features ultra-sharp teeth that effortlessly grate ingredients like citrus zest or hard cheeses, ensuring maximum blade efficiency. Similarly, the 'OXO Good Grips Box Grater' boasts sharp, stainless-steel blades that are ideal for grating vegetables, cheese, and chocolate. The 'Cuisinart CTG-00-BG Boxed Grater' is another excellent option with a versatile design and blades that remain sharp for optimal grating results. Consider opting for graters with replaceable blade cartridges, such as the 'OXO Etched Box Grater Replacement Blades', to maximize long-term blade efficiency.
Handle ergonomics
Handle ergonomics play a crucial role in choosing the best and right graters. A comfortable and well-designed handle ensures a firm grip and minimizes hand fatigue during use. Look for graters with handles that are ergonomically shaped and made of non-slip material, providing a secure grip even when hands are wet or greasy. The Microplane Elite Series Grater stands out with its soft-touch handle that enhances control and reduces strain while grating. Similarly, the OXO Good Grips Etched Zester features a non-slip handle with a comfortable contoured shape for optimal usability.
When considering handle ergonomics, it can be helpful to categorize graters based on their handle design. Some graters, like the KitchenAid Box Grater, have a traditional handle that extends vertically from the grating surface, offering stability and ease of use. Others, such as the Joseph Joseph Foldable Grater Plus, feature a foldable handle that allows for compact storage without compromising grip comfort. Lastly, there are graters like the Rosle Coarse Grater that have a flat handle integrated into the grating surface, providing stability during use.
Blade type (fine, coarse, ribbon, zester)
There are several blade types available in the market: fine, coarse, ribbon, and zester. The fine grater is designed for fine shredding, creating small, delicate strands of food. A top recommendation in this category is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater.
On the other hand, the coarse grater is perfect for larger shreds and cuts. It can efficiently grate vegetables like carrots and potatoes. A popular choice is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which offers sharp stainless steel blades and non-slip grip.
For those who prefer to create decorative garnishes, a ribbon grater is ideal. This type of grater produces long, thin shreds that add an elegant touch to dishes. An excellent option in this category is the Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Mega Y Peeler, which can also be used as a grater.
Lastly, a zester grater is specifically designed to extract the aromatic zest from citrus fruits, such as lemons or limes. The Deiss PRO Citrus Zester & Cheese Grater is highly recommended, featuring razor-sharp stainless steel blades for effortless zesting.
While there are variations and specialties within each blade type, these recommendations provide a starting point for choosing the best grater based on the desired result.
Grater style (box grater, handheld, rotary)
There are three main styles to choose from: box grater, handheld grater, and rotary grater.
Box graters, such as the Cuisinart CTG-00-BG, are a versatile option as they typically come with four sides, each with a different grating surface (fine, medium, coarse, and slicing). These graters are great for tasks like grating cheese, lemon zest, and vegetables.
Handheld graters, like the Microplane Premium Classic, offer precision and control due to their smaller size. They often feature a single grating surface, commonly seen in fine or coarse options. These graters are preferred for tasks like grating hard cheeses, nutmeg, or ginger.
Finally, rotary graters, such as the Westmark Multipurpose Rotary Grater, have a rotary drum with sharp rotating blades. These graters are designed for effortless grating and are commonly used for filing different types of hard cheeses or semi-frozen butter.
Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the grater style that suits you best. Whether you opt for the versatility of a box grater, precision of a handheld grater, or ease of use with a rotary grater, there's a perfect grater style waiting for you.
Fine grating capability
One excellent option for achieving fine grating is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater. With its razor-sharp stainless steel blades, this grater effortlessly finely grates citrus zest, hard cheeses, and even chocolate. Another great alternative is the Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology Four Sided Box Grater, which offers different grating surfaces, including a fine surface for precise grating. Additionally, the Deiss PRO Citrus Zester & Cheese Grater is a highly rated grater that guarantees fine grating thanks to its sharp stainless steel blades and convenient non-slip handle. These graters are known for their exceptional fine grating capabilities, making them ideal choices for achieving finely grated ingredients in your culinary creations.
Coarse grating capability
Coarse graters are designed to shred foods into larger pieces, making them ideal for grating hard cheeses, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and even chocolate. A grater with a coarse grating capability will be especially useful if you enjoy adding these ingredients to your recipes.
There are several products on the market that excel in this area. One example is the Microplane 38004 Professional Coarse Grater, which features an ultra-sharp stainless steel blade that effortlessly grates foods into coarse, luscious shreds. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater with a coarse grating surface that efficiently grates foods into thick, flavorful pieces. For those looking for a grater with even more versatility, the Deiss PRO Citrus Zester & Cheese Grater offers a coarse grating capability along with a zesting function for citrus fruits. These products are excellent choices for achieving the perfect coarse grate in your culinary endeavors.
Ribbon grating capability
This feature allows you to effortlessly create thin, uniform ribbons from various hard ingredients such as cheese, chocolate, or vegetables. The Microplane Premium Classic Ribbon Grater stands out in this category with its ultra-sharp stainless steel blades that efficiently slice ingredients into perfect ribbons. Another worthy option is the OXO Good Grips Multi-Purpose Ribbon Grater, which features a razor-sharp, acid-etched blade ideal for achieving even, paper-thin ribbons. Both these graters offer the essential ergonomic handles allowing for a firm grip and effortless grating, ensuring precision and consistency in your kitchen creations.
Zesting capability
A high-quality grater should be able to effectively and effortlessly zest citrus fruits, enhancing the flavors of your dishes. One example of a grater with excellent zesting capability is the Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater. It features an ultra-sharp stainless steel blade designed to easily zest citrus fruits, creating fine, flavorful zest without any unwanted pith. Additionally, the Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology 4-Sided Boxed Grater is another great option with multiple grating surfaces, including a fine grater that can perfectly zest citrus fruits. These products stand out due to their precision and effectiveness in creating aromatic zest, enhancing the taste of your recipes.
Slicing capability
The ability of a grater to effectively and efficiently slice foods can greatly impact its usability and performance. For example, the Rösle Stainless Steel Coarse Grater features large cutting slits, making it ideal for effortlessly slicing and grating larger foods such as potatoes, zucchinis, or cabbages. Additionally, the KitchenAid Box Grater offers three different blades, including a slicer blade, which allows you to achieve precise and uniform slices of fruits and vegetables. Another option is the Microplane Elite Series Box Grater, which comes with an ultra-sharp slicer blade that can effortlessly slice through even hard foods like cheese or chocolate, thanks to its etched micro-teeth.
Shredding capability
This refers to the grater's ability to shred the ingredients efficiently and effectively. A high-quality grater should be able to produce fine and consistent shreds, allowing you to achieve desired results in your culinary creations.
In the market today, there are different types of graters that excel in shredding capability. One notable option is the Microplane Classic Series Zester/Grater. With its razor-sharp stainless-steel teeth, this grater effortlessly shreds ingredients like citrus zest, hard cheeses, and even ginger. It ensures precision shredding due to its curved surface and non-slip rubber foot. Another excellent choice is the Box Grater - 4-Sided Stainless Steel Cheese Grater. It features four different shredding surfaces - fine, medium, coarse, and slicing. The ultra-sharp blades deliver exceptional shredding, making it suitable for a wide range of ingredients, including cheeses, vegetables, and chocolates. These graters exemplify outstanding shredding capability, providing you with remarkable culinary experiences.
Box grater sides (multiple grating options)
These graters typically have four sides with different grating surfaces suitable for various tasks. For example, the KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater offers a coarse grating side for vegetables like carrots and zucchinis, a medium grating side for cheeses, a fine grating side for citrus zest or ginger, and a slicing side for cucumbers or potatoes. Similarly, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater offers similar multiple grating options including a unique slicing blade for convenience. This type of grater is versatile and efficient, as it allows you to tackle different types of ingredients with ease and precision, resulting in professional-grade results.
Non-slip base
A grater with a non-slip base allows for stability and prevents accidents while grating, ensuring your safety in the kitchen. One great product that offers this feature is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater, which has a non-slip base for added stability. Its extended handle also provides a comfortable grip, making grating easier. Another option is the Microplane Premium Classic Zester Grater, which includes a non-slip base for stability and a rubberized handle for a secure grip. These graters not only offer a non-slip base but also provide additional features to enhance your grating experience.
Storage options (hanging hook, compact design)
One option to look for is a grater with a hanging hook, which allows you to easily hang it up in your kitchen for quick accessibility. For example, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater features a convenient hanging loop, saving valuable counter and drawer space.
Another factor to consider is compact design. Opting for a grater with a compact design ensures that it takes up minimal space in your kitchen. The Microplane Classic Zester/Grater is a great choice with its slim and compact design, suitable for small kitchens or limited storage spaces.
It's worth noting that there are various types and segments of graters available on the market. For instance, you can find handheld graters, such as the Raniaco Zester Stainless Steel Grater, which is compact and includes a hanging loop. There are also box graters like the Cuisipro Surface Glide 4-Sided Box Grater that offer multiple grating options and feature a hanging hook for easy storage. By considering storage options like hanging hooks and compact designs, you can choose a grater that fits your needs and ensures convenient storage in your kitchen.
Left-hand friendliness
Many traditional graters are designed with a right-handed orientation, which can make it challenging for left-handed individuals to comfortably grip and control the grater. Fortunately, there are a variety of options available that cater specifically to left-hand users.
One excellent example of a left-hand friendly grater is the Microplane Professional Series Grater. This grater features a reversible design, allowing it to be used with either hand. With sharp stainless steel blades and a nonslip handle, it ensures efficient and safe grating for left-handed users. Another option is the OXO Good Grips Etched Box Grater with a removable reservoir that allows for both left and right-hand use without compromising on performance. Both of these graters are excellent choices for left-handed individuals and offer versatile functionality suitable for a range of grating needs.
Grater width
The width of the grater determines the amount of cheese, vegetables, or other ingredients that can be grated at once. For those who frequently prepare larger quantities of grated ingredients, a wider grater surface is more convenient as it allows for faster and more efficient grating.
One great example of a grater with a wide grating surface is the OXO Good Grips Box Grater. This box grater features a wide grating surface with multiple grating options including coarse, medium, fine, and slicing. With a width of 5.25 inches, this grater allows for the easy and quick grating of large cheese blocks, carrots, and more. Another option to consider is the Microplane Elite Series Extra Coarse Grater, which has a grating width of 2.75 inches. Despite its smaller width, this grater is excellent for larger grating tasks and is perfect for efficiently grating hard cheeses or vegetables.
Ease of assembly/disassembly (for cleaning)
Look for graters that are designed with removable blades or components to make cleaning hassle-free. One example that meets this criterion is the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester Grater. It features a removable blade that can be easily detached for effortless cleaning, ensuring that no residue is left behind. Another option is the KitchenIQ Better Zester Stainless Steel Grater, which also offers a detachable blade that can be quickly assembled and disassembled for convenient cleaning. Both graters are dishwasher safe, making the cleaning process even easier.
Aesthetics
If you value a sleek and modern look that complements your kitchen decor, consider stainless steel graters. For example, the Microplane Premium Classic Series Zester/Grater features an elegant stainless steel construction with a contoured handle for easy grip. Another aesthetic option is graters with colorful handles, which can add a pop of vibrancy to your kitchen. The KitchenAid Gourmet Fine Zester/Grater offers a range of bold handle colors like red and aqua, making it both functional and visually appealing. Whatever your aesthetic preference, there are graters available in the market that can satisfy your style and add a touch of elegance or vibrancy to your culinary tools.
Price
There is a wide range of options available in the market, catering to different price points. In the budget-friendly range, the OXO Good Grips Box Grater stands out as a great option. It features four sides for various grating needs, a comfortable gripping handle, and a storage compartment with a lid. Priced in the mid-range, the Microplane Professional Series Fine Grater offers exceptional quality and performance. It is equipped with sharp stainless steel blades that effortlessly grate hard cheeses, spices, and citrus zest. For those seeking a premium grater, the KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater is a top choice. It boasts a high-quality stainless steel construction, comfortable soft-grip handle, and a unique three-cup container to catch grated ingredients.
Variety of brands
Each brand offers its own set of pros and cons, which can play a significant role in your decision-making process.
One popular brand in the market is Microplane. They are known for their razor-sharp stainless steel blades that effortlessly grate and zest various ingredients. Microplane graters excel in precision and deliver consistent results. However, their graters can be pricier compared to other brands on the market.
Another reliable brand is OXO. They offer a range of graters designed for different purposes, such as fine grating, coarse grating, and slicing. OXO graters often feature non-slip handles and storage covers for convenience. However, some users have reported that OXO graters may not be as sharp as some other brands, which might affect their efficiency for certain tasks.
It's also worth mentioning the brand Cuisipro, which offers a unique line of graters called Surface Glide Technology. These graters have grooved surfaces that enhance performance by reducing resistance and improving overall grating results. While Cuisipro graters are highly praised for their efficiency and accuracy, some users have mentioned that the grooves can make cleaning a bit more challenging.
In comparing these brands, it's important to consider your specific grating needs, preferences, and budget before making a final decision. There are other reputable brands in the market as well, so exploring reviews, getting hands-on experiences, and thoroughly considering the benefits and drawbacks of various brands will help you choose the perfect grater for your culinary adventures.