7 Best Grinders For Flax Seeds
Flax seed is an ever-growing ingredient that gains more attraction every day. Naturally, that means it also gets used in more ways and for different recipes! As of late, ground flax seeds have become especially popular.
Unfortunately, suppliers decided to up the price for the ground version by a ridiculous amount. So, why not just grind these seeds at home? For that, you’d need an effective grinder.
What are the best grinders for flax seeds? Always choose one that works best for you — you might want a multi-functional option or one that suits the aesthetic of your kitchen. Most grinders are virtually the same and differ minimally in function or effectiveness. Read reviews for an accurate idea of whether or not a grinder is worth buying.
In this article, we’ll not only be looking at buying a high-quality grinder but at the best options that are available out there to date. We included a variety on our list, so you’re practically guaranteed to find an option that works for you!
What Is Flax Seed?
Flax seed is another common name for linseed — this is a type of seed that comes from the Linum usitatissimum plant.
Big words, we know. But all you need to know is that this is one of the most nutritious and functional seeds out there!
You can find a few different types and forms of flax seeds.
The most common are made from brown flax seeds or golden (yellow) flax seeds. Both are processed in various ways to produce ground flax seeds, powdered flax seeds, and flax seed oils and concentrates.
As mentioned, these seeds are loaded with nutrients — it’s arguably why they are so commonly used!
Flax seeds contain high amounts of thiamine and vitamin B. They also contain exceptionally high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, and are surprisingly high in protein!
If you look at a nutritional breakdown of these seeds, it may not seem that much. But, considering how little you need to take in for the number of nutrients you get, it’s a superfood!
Functions Of Flax Seeds
So, as we’ve also mentioned, flax seeds are very functional ingredients.
In their oil form, they are used as a lubricant, tenderizer, and flavoring ingredient.
In their whole form, they can be used as a garnish or topping for other dishes, or as a way to intentionally incorporate some nutrients into your diet.
This can be done through recipes that include these seeds like granola, protein bars, smoothie bowls, and bread. However, here is where the function of these seeds extends beyond nutrition.
When ground up, these seeds have a multitude of uses. They can be incorporated into recipes as a binding ingredient, a flavoring ingredient, and an emulsifier and stabilizer.
You can even make fake vegan eggs using ground flax seeds. They have gelling abilities that enable them to whip and bind ingredients in the same way egg whites do!
So, if you hadn’t already realized how versatile these tiny seeds are, hopefully, you now feel a flush of inspiration with potential functions, uses, and benefits you can gain.
Why Grind Flax Seeds?
Many people claim that you can better ingest the nutrients these seeds offer when they are ground up. It kind of makes sense.
It’s the same reason you take some pain medication in an IV drip. The dissolved form gets into your system much quicker.
Your stomach acid won’t be able to dissolve the ground seeds before it absorbs the nutrients. So, you’ll get more nutrition much quicker.
It isn’t necessary, but it does make sense. And after all, the ground form has a lot more functions than the whole seeds. So, might as well just grind a bunch of them together!
Choosing The Best Grinder — Buyer’s Guide
Now, because flax seeds are so tiny, not all grinders work well to make them into a powdery ingredient.
For example, here are some common issues we’ve encountered:
- The blades aren’t low enough in the container.
- The surface area is too big for the number of seeds you want to blend.
- The blades aren’t intended for pulverizing.
Whatever the reason, there are a couple of factors you have to consider before buying a grinder specifically for grinding flax seeds.
Electric Or Manual
Many people like to consider electric grinders for their ease of use. However, don’t overlook manual grinders!
If you are sensitive to textures, a manual grinder will allow you to control the exact grind your seeds will be worked into. It takes longer, but it may be worth the effort — not to mention, many people find it therapeutic.
Nevertheless, electric grinders are better suited for people on the run. It’s quick and easy, and they often have a broader range of functions than manual grinders. They may even be cheaper!
Size
Unless you are making enough ground flax seed for an army, you won’t be able to use a food processor. Plus, ground flax seed isn’t used as flour — you almost always only use a couple of tablespoons at the most.
A big surface area in your blender means that the seeds won’t blend; they’ll just be spun around the container without being crushed effectively. So, smaller grinders work much better.
Effectiveness
Honestly, it is very difficult to tell which grinders will be effective and which won’t. That’s why we always dive deep into the product reviews from customers (who never hold back).
If you are looking at any specific product and want to know how well it works and for what, have a look at the reviews from multiple sites.
Ease Of Cleaning
This is very important! Some grinders are a nightmare to clean since you have to disassemble the entire appliance to clean one tiny part. Others are easy to clean and can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
Always think about how an appliance needs to be cleaned before buying it because there is nothing worse than a blender that can’t be cleaned properly or that takes hours to clean.
Best Grinders For Flax Seeds
Below are our favorite flax seed grinders that can all be found on Amazon. We tried to include something for every possible need you have and at varying price points.
This way, you are all but guaranteed to find a grinder that works for your kitchen!
| Rank | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hamilton Beach Coffee And Spice Grinder | An effective and multi-functional grinder that is very affordable. |
| 2 | Kaffe Coffee, Nuts, Seeds, And Spice Grinder With Cleaning Brush | Another versatile and well-working grinder that is slightly more expensive than the above-mentioned. |
| 3 | Gorilla Grip Heavy Duty Granite Mortar And Pestle | Old-school manual grinder that works effectively! You can easily control the grind and it's aesthetically pleasing. |
| 4 | Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Electric Coffee Grinder | Cheap and effective product for a space-saving and easy-to-use option. |
| 5 | Cool Knight Electric Spice Grinder | A high-powered grinder that works quickly and effectively. |
| 6 | Triple Tree Manual Coffee Grinder With Brush And Scoop | Aesthetic manual grinder with a screw-on bowl that catches the ground flax seeds. |
| 7 | Kozo Spice Grinder | Compact grinder for office use, camping, or on-the-go consumers. |
1. Hamilton Beach Coffee And Spice Grinder
This is hands-down one of the best versatile electric grinders out there — it is suited to grinding coffee beans, spices, herbs, and seeds.
It works with a push of the button and you can easily adjust the texture of your flax seeds.
This grinder is easy to clean and comes with a removable and dish-washed safe grinding bowl. Plus, it has been designed with a hidden cord so that you can save some space in your cupboard or counter.
This grinder can make large and small batches of ground flax seed. And now for the best part — it’s one of the most affordable options on the market!
2. Kaffe Coffee, Nuts, Seeds, And Spice Grinder With Cleaning Brush
Next up, we have an equally effective and versatile electric grinder.
This one comes in a variety of colors and has a cleaning brush.
It also works with the push-to-grind button function and can make large and small batches of ground flax seed at a time.
So, why is it below the Hamilton Beach option if they are virtually the same?
Well, this one is generally slightly more expensive — and in today’s economy, every dollar counts!
3. Gorilla Grip Heavy Duty Granite Mortar And Pestle
When it works, it works. Pestle and mortars and been around for centuries!
You can’t necessarily make a bunch of ground flax seeds at a time, but this works extremely well and is multi-functional.
Not to mention that these tools are easy to clean, don’t require electricity, and make beautiful decorative pieces in your kitchen too.
You can choose from a variety of colors, textures, and prices. We love this unpolished one specifically for a more minimalist rustic look, but again, there are plenty of options to choose from.
4. Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Electric Coffee Grinder
If you are looking for an option that is cheap yet effective, this basic coffee bean grinder from Amazon is perfect!
It doesn’t necessarily look pretty or have any fancy features, but it works well.
Like we said, sometimes you just need to read the reviews — this grinder works well for virtually any dried ingredient that needs pulverizing, including flax seeds.
It’s easy to clean, made from high-quality materials, and is easy to use as well.
5. Cool Knight Electric Spice Grinder
A very sleek and modern grinder that works at incredibly high speeds, this is the epitome of power for electric grinders.
This product pulverizes your seeds, spices, coffee beans, and herbs. You can have about 3.5-4.2 ounces (100-120 grams) of flax seeds inside and pulverize them in less than 10 seconds!
It even has built-in ventilation holes to prevent the appliance from overheating. It is incredibly easy to clean and very compact.
Arguably the best part is that it comes in a variety of colors, all of which are surprisingly affordable!
6. Triple Tree Manual Coffee Grinder With Brush And Scoop
Next up, we have a tool that is specifically intended for coffee beans. But, having tested it ourselves, it makes more than an adequate manual grinder for flax seeds!
First, you fill the top part with the flax seed, then close the lid and start grinding. The ground seeds will fall directly into a screwed-on jar to prevent any from spilling over.
This manual grinder is made with heavy-duty stainless steel and hard plastic. It will last you a long time if you take care of it well. Plus, it’s aesthetically pleasing and easy to clean too.
7. Kozo Spice Grinder
Last but not least, we also included a spice grinder for on-the-go — you would be surprised at how many people use these in their day-to-day lives!
But why don’t people just add the ground flax seed to their smoothie before leaving for work? Well, that’s simple.
Remember that we mentioned flax seeds have thickening and gelling abilities? Well, if you add them too early, by the time you drink the smoothie it’s all gooey.
That’s not ideal for some situations — hence why many people grind their flax seeds and add the powder later!
This manual herb and spice grinder is extremely compact and can fit with your lunchbox. it also has a magnetic lid, making it easy to store in a place that’s easily accessible, and the sharp teeth grind flax seeds effortlessly.
I was looking for a grinder specifically for flax seeds &, because of your info & recommendation, ordered the Hamilton Beach Coffee & Spice Grinder. It is all you stated it would be, & I am very, very happy with my purchase. Thanks, FOODS GUY, & keep up the great work!