Grater

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What it is

A grater is a food-preparation tool with a cutting surface. Box graters may have surfaces that make different sizes of shreds; a rasp-style grater is long and slim and shaves food into very fine pieces.

When to use it

Use a grater to grate or shred ingredients. A rasp is useful for removing the zest from citrus without the bitter white pith, and can also grate foods such as ginger, garlic, hard cheese, chocolate, and whole spices.

How to use it

Move the food over the cutting surface that suits the result you want. With a box or hand grater, move vegetables from top to bottom across the holes. Stop when the piece is too small to hold securely.

How to choose it

Choose a style for the cut you need: a box grater may offer several shred sizes, while a rasp makes very fine zest. For shredding vegetables, a box grater, hand grater, or food processor can also do the job.

Cleaning and storage

Remove residue and clean the grater after use. Microplane’s Gourmet Series Fine Grater is top-rack dishwasher safe and should be rinsed immediately after use. For Grandma Ann’s Electric Grater, unplug before cleaning and wipe the body with a damp cloth. Always follow the particular model’s instructions.

Alternatives for each use

For shredding vegetables, a box grater, hand grater, or food processor can serve as alternatives. They do not necessarily produce the same cut; the result depends on the tool and its working surface.

Common mistakes

When a vegetable piece becomes too small to hold safely, cut it with a knife instead of moving your fingers close to the holes.

Safe use

Grater surfaces are sharp. Keep fingers away from the cutting edges, and stop when you can no longer hold the food securely. Unplug an electric grater before cleaning it.

Frequently asked questions

What determines the size of the grated pieces?

The cutting surface determines the result. A box grater may offer several sizes, while a rasp produces very fine pieces.

Which grater is useful for fine citrus zest?

A rasp-style grater is suited to shaving the thin citrus peel without including the bitter white pith.

How should I clean Grandma Ann’s Electric Grater?

Unplug it before cleaning. Clean the blade with soapy water and a soft brush; wipe the body with a damp cloth, then dry it. These instructions apply to that appliance.