Not too long ago, we shared some ideas on alternative uses for spice grinders. The list included everything from Doritos chip seasoning to instant icing sugar and a few other things as well. Today, we have some more ideas on how to use your grinder… some ways weirder than others.

Before we get going, remember that however you use your grinder, it is best to invest in a few sets of bottles and flip top or screw on lid attachments so that you can clean out and reuse them safely without any non-spice ingredients ruining your favourite whole spices. To find a full range of grinders and other related products, head on over to our Ready to Grind section or shop for bottles and lids separately.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at some other interesting things you can grind in a pepper mill or grinder…

More Uses for Your Spice Grinder

With an abundance of weird and wonderful spice grinders to be found out there, along with good old fashioned grinders that get the job done without the bells and whistles, it is safe to say that these tools are commonplace in most kitchens and dining rooms. While spices, salt and pepper are the things most frequently ground in grinder bottles, the convenient grinding function and simple shape of these tools make them useful for grinding a surprising number of edible and not-so-edible materials. Here are some of the more unusual of those materials…

1. Dried insects. Considered a major source of protein, insects are still a somewhat unusual food item consumed in many parts of the world. Some supporters believe that dried insects offer a sustainable alternative or addition to other animal protein sources. And, more interestingly, these experts suggest grinding dried insects into a protein powder to add to smoothies, oats, salads and other meals!
2. Rice. Rice can be ground and used as porridge, or it can be used as a natural face and body scrub when mixed with rice water, milk or skin enriching oil. According to beauty experts, rice scrubs have been used by Japanese women for centuries, giving a healthy glow and helping to fight the signs of aging.
3. Poppy seeds. Another item that doubles as a food and skin care ingredient, poppy seeds have plenty of healthy benefits, however you use them. Ground poppy seeds can be used to make a pudding or porridge – soak with milk and leave in the fridge overnight to enjoy for breakfast the next morning. Ground poppy seeds can be mixed with your favourite skin enriching oil for a complexion-boosting scrub as well.
4. Flaxseed. These healthy, tiny seeds are packed full of goodness. Consumed ground, they have far more benefits – fibre, healthy fats and other nutrients. They are surprisingly versatile when ground as well. Use with yogurt and fruit, add to smoothies, sprinkle over salads and grind over soup and any other food (sweet or savoury). They do not have much of a taste and do not affect the flavour and texture of food, but will give you a healthy dose of nutrients with just a flick of the grinder.
5. Flavoured salt. Ok, this is not really weird or even unusual, but it’s worth adding anyway. Buying coarse pink or sea salt in bulk and then adding to your grinder along with your favourite dried herbs is a simple way to make your own flavoured salts. It’s also a great gift idea – buy a set of glass grinders and mix coarse salt with dried rosemary, dried chilli, dried basil and other herbs, and voila… you will have a lovely gift for the foodie in your life.

Now it’s over to you… what do you grind in your spice grinders? We’d love to hear your comments, so share your ideas below and let us know!