Microplane Guide: Zesting, Grating, and Shaving Like a Pro

Meet Your New Kitchen MVP: The Microplane

A close-up of a chef's hand holding a Microplane grater

If you’ve ever watched a chef on TV or in a restaurant kitchen, you’ve likely seen them wield a long, skinny tool that looks like a cross between a rasp and a grater. That, my friend, is a Microplane, and it’s about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.

Born from the world of woodworking, the Microplane was originally designed to smooth wood surfaces. But when a clever cook realized its potential for grating cheese and zesting citrus, a culinary revolution began. Today, the Microplane is a staple in kitchens across the United States, from bustling NYC restaurants to cozy Midwest homes.

Zesting Like a Pro: Citrus and Beyond

A bright, colorful image of a Microplane grater zesting a

The Secret to Perfect Zest

Zesting is an art, and the Microplane is your paintbrush. Unlike traditional box graters, the Microplane’s razor-sharp teeth effortlessly remove the outer layer of citrus fruit, leaving behind the bitter pith.

To zest like a pro, hold the fruit in one hand and the Microplane in the other. Gently run the fruit along the grater, rotating as you go. In seconds, you’ll have a shower of vibrant, fragrant zest – perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite recipes.

Beyond Citrus: Creative Zesting Ideas

While citrus is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Use your Microplane to zest:

Ginger: Add a spicy kick to stir-fries and marinades
Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg takes desserts and eggnog to the next level
Chocolate: Create delicate chocolate shavings for garnishes and toppings

Grating Cheese: From Hard to Soft

A rustic, farmhouse-style kitchen scene with a Microplane grater, a

Mastering Hard Cheeses

Hard cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino, and Asiago are a breeze with the Microplane. Its sharp teeth effortlessly break down even the hardest cheeses into light, fluffy piles.

For best results, chill your cheese in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before grating. This firms up the texture, making it easier to grate and resulting in a more consistent texture.

Tackling Soft Cheeses

Soft cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and Gruyère can be trickier to grate, but the Microplane is up to the task. The key is to work quickly and use a light touch.

If your cheese is too soft, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before grating. Alternatively, use a lighter hand and grate in short bursts to prevent the cheese from clumping or sticking to the grater.

Shaving Chocolate and Hard Cheeses

A decadent, close-up image of a Microplane grater shaving a

Chocolate Shavings Made Easy

Impress your guests with delicate chocolate shavings, perfect for garnishing desserts, hot chocolate, and more. Simply use the Microplane to shave a block of high-quality chocolate, working quickly to prevent melting.

For best results, chill your chocolate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaving. This firms up the texture, making it easier to create uniform shavings.

Hard Cheese Shavings for Salads and More

Take your salads, pasta dishes, and charcuterie boards to the next level with paper-thin hard cheese shavings. Use the Microplane to shave cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino, or Asiago directly over your dish.

The result? A delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that elevates any recipe. Just be sure to work quickly and use a light touch to prevent the cheese from clumping or sticking to the grater.

Caring for Your Microplane: Tips and Tricks

A clean, minimalist image of a Microplane grater being washed

Cleaning and Maintenance

To keep your Microplane in top condition, rinse it immediately after use with warm, soapy water. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any stuck-on food particles, and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

Avoid soaking your Microplane in water or putting it in the dishwasher, as this can damage the sharp teeth and reduce its effectiveness.

Storing Your Microplane

When not in use, store your Microplane in a dry, safe place. Consider using a protective cover or sleeve to prevent the sharp teeth from getting damaged or causing injuries.

If you have limited storage space, look for a Microplane with a built-in hanging loop or magnetic strip, making it easy to store on a hook or magnetic knife rack.

FAQ

Can I use my Microplane for grating vegetables?

Yes, your Microplane can be used for grating soft vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and potatoes. However, be cautious when grating harder vegetables, as they can damage the teeth over time.

How do I sharpen my Microplane?

Microplanes are designed with razor-sharp teeth that require minimal maintenance. If your Microplane becomes dull, consider replacing it with a new one, as sharpening is not recommended.

Can I grate frozen ingredients with my Microplane?

While it’s possible to grate frozen ingredients like butter or cheese, it’s not recommended. The extreme cold can make the ingredients too hard, potentially damaging the Microplane’s teeth.

Is my Microplane dishwasher safe?

No, Microplanes should not be put in the dishwasher. The high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the sharp teeth and reduce the grater’s effectiveness. Always hand-wash your Microplane with warm, soapy water.

What’s the best way to zest citrus fruits?

Hold the fruit in one hand and the Microplane in the other. Gently run the fruit along the grater, rotating as you go. Be sure to only zest the colorful outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

David Park

David handles the Kitchen Gear category, reviewing tools, equipment, and accessories that make cooking and food storage easier. His articles focus on practical recommendations for everyday home cooks.

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