To prepare flaxseed by grinding it into a meal, you'll need a powerful grinder.
Flaxseeds are often consumed in ground form, known as flaxseed meal or flax meal, as this makes their nutrients more accessible. The process is simple when you have the right tools.
How to Grind Flaxseeds
Follow these steps to turn whole flaxseeds into a fine meal:
- Gather Your Tools: You will need whole flaxseeds and a coffee or spice grinder. It's important to use a powerful grinder specifically designed for seeds or spices, as a food processor is not suitable for this task.
- Measure the Seeds: Work in small quantities. Simply blitz ΒΌ cup flaxseeds at a time. Grinding small batches ensures a fine and consistent powder.
- Grind the Seeds: Turn on the grinder and blitz the flaxseeds until the seeds have been reduced to a powder. This typically takes only a few seconds. The goal is to obtain a fine meal.
- Why Grind? While the reference doesn't explicitly state why, grinding flaxseeds helps your body better absorb the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients they contain. Whole seeds can often pass through the digestive system undigested.
Storing Flaxseed Meal
Once ground, flaxseed meal is more prone to oxidation than whole seeds due to its increased surface area. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and nutritional value.
Store flaxseed meal in an opaque, airtight container. You have several options for where to keep it:
- In the pantry (for short-term use)
- In the fridge
- In the freezer (for longer storage)
Using an opaque container helps protect the meal from light, which can degrade its quality. Keeping it airtight prevents moisture and air from causing spoilage.
By following these steps, you can easily prepare fresh flaxseed meal at home for use in various recipes, from smoothies and yogurt to baked goods and cereals.
