Know How To Fix Your Mixer Grinder If It Is Sabotaging Your Spices And Check The Top 8 On Flipkart

We've all been there, stirring up a delicious curry or tossing together a fragrant masala for a special dish, only to find that the spices don't quite have the same zing as before. The aroma's off, the heat's not right, and the flavour's just… flat. You check everything, from the freshness of your ingredients to the method you're using, and yet, it's just not the same. However, have you ever considered that your mixer grinder might be the culprit? Yes, that humble machine that whirs away in the background, grinding and blending our favourite ingredients. While it's a kitchen workhorse, it can also be the silent saboteur of your spice game, and here's why.

Mixer grinders are often taken for granted, and we tend to focus more on the ingredients and the recipe, but the tool you use to process those ingredients plays a significant role in how the flavours are extracted. It's time to take a closer look at how your mixer grinder could be impacting the taste of your spices, and what you can do to fix it. And if you find that you need to get a new one, we have listed some below from Longway, Sansui, Butterfly to Havok, now available on Flipkart.

Also Read: Top 10 Mixer Grinder Deals You Cant Miss This Season

Why Your Mixer Grinder Might Be Ruining Your Spices: And How to Fix It; Photo Credit: istockphoto

1. Are You Using a Dull Blade?

One of the most common reasons spices lose their punch is the simple issue of a dull blade. When you grind spices, whether it's whole peppercorns, cardamom pods, or mustard seeds, the blade needs to be sharp enough to finely chop or crush the spices and release their essential oils. A dull blade, on the other hand, tends to crush spices unevenly, leading to a loss of flavour.

Have you noticed that sometimes your spices come out looking more like dust than a fine powder? Or perhaps they seem to clump together, losing their original texture? That's a clear sign that your grinder's blade might be worn out. Over time, the blade loses its sharpness, making it more difficult to extract those fragrant oils that give your spices their unique taste and aroma.

The solution is simple: check the condition of your blades regularly and replace them when necessary. Most good-quality mixers will have replaceable parts, so if your blade is starting to wear down, it might be time for an upgrade. Your spices will thank you for it!

2. Overheating: A Silent Spice Killer

Another sneaky culprit behind dull, off-flavoured spices is overheating. Mixing or grinding at high speeds for too long can cause the spices to heat up. This heat can burn the essential oils, causing them to evaporate or change composition. Instead of releasing their full aromatic potential, the spices lose their fragrance, and in some cases, the taste turns bitter.

For instance, grinding pepper at high speeds for extended periods might result in a harsh, bitter flavour. Or grinding cumin seeds too long can result in a flat, stale taste. It's important to keep an eye on your mixer's motor and give it breaks in between grinding sessions. If the motor heats up too much, turn it off for a few minutes to cool down.

A helpful tip is to grind in short bursts and allow your mixer to rest every 20-30 seconds, especially when processing tough spices. You'll preserve the delicate balance of flavours and the richness of the spices. So next time, listen to the sound of your mixer, if it's humming away too loudly or too fast, it might be time to pause.

3. Using the Wrong Jar for the Job

Did you know that the jar you use can have a big impact on how well your spices are ground? If you're using a small jar for larger quantities of spices or a deep jar for smaller amounts, the grinder may not be able to process them properly. When there's too much space in the jar, spices can bounce around, failing to get evenly crushed or ground. Similarly, when there's not enough space, the grinder struggles to achieve the desired texture.

It's always best to choose a jar size that matches the amount of spices you're working with. A smaller jar works best for grinding small quantities of spices like cardamom or cloves, while larger jars are better for grinding bigger quantities like turmeric or coriander seeds. This ensures that the spices are evenly ground, without being scattered or left in large chunks.

Pay attention to the size of the jar and adjust accordingly. The right jar can make a world of difference in ensuring that every spice is ground just right.

Why Your Mixer Grinder Might Be Ruining Your Spices: And How to Fix It; Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Dirty Grinder: The Forgotten Factor

We all know that cleaning our mixer grinders is important for hygiene, but did you know that a dirty grinder can actually change the flavour of your spices? Leftover residue from previous batches, or a buildup of spice oils in the grinder, can transfer onto fresh spices, resulting in an off taste.

Imagine trying to grind some fresh cinnamon, only to find that the last batch of curry powder has left a faint, lingering taste. It's not exactly the flavour profile you were hoping for! A thorough cleaning after every use is essential to prevent any cross-contamination of flavours.

To clean your grinder properly, make sure to disassemble all parts and wipe down the blades and jars with a dry cloth. For stubborn residue, use a damp cloth followed by a dry wipe to ensure everything is spotless. Don't forget the lid, as leftover spice dust can hide there too. A clean grinder equals fresher-tasting spices.

5. Speeding Through Grinding: Quality Takes Time

In a hurry to finish your cooking? We've all been there. But rushing through the grinding process can work against you. Grinding spices too quickly doesn't give them the time they need to properly release their flavours. This can result in a coarse grind, leaving you with uneven flavours or spices that are too strong, bitter, or overpowering.

When you grind spices, patience is key. Let the grinder work its magic slowly and steadily. If you're grinding a tough spice like cinnamon or nutmeg, allow the machine to work at a moderate speed to ensure it breaks down properly. This helps in bringing out the spice's natural oils, which are the true flavour carriers.

Try to resist the temptation to grind quickly. After all, slow and steady wins the flavour race!

6. Over-Grinding or Under-Grinding: Find the Right Texture

Another factor to consider when grinding spices is the texture. Some recipes call for a fine powder, while others require a coarser grind. Over-grinding your spices can lead to a powdery texture that's too fine, and the oils might get trapped, making the flavour taste too intense or even stale. On the other hand, under-grinding spices results in large chunks that won't release their full flavour profile.

A good rule of thumb is to always follow the texture recommended by your recipe. If you're uncertain, try a middle ground, not too fine, not too coarse. You can always adjust the grind based on the consistency you prefer. And remember, your grinder is a versatile tool, experiment with different settings to find what works best for your cooking style.

Getting the grind right can elevate your dishes, ensuring they taste as good as they smell.

Why Your Mixer Grinder Might Be Ruining Your Spices: And How to Fix It; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Spices Expiring Too Quickly: Storage Is Key

While this tip is more about spice storage than the grinder itself, it's crucial to mention. Spices don't last forever, and if you're using old, expired spices in your grinder, no matter how sharp the blade, the flavour will be flat. Even if your grinder is in top shape, stale spices won't give you the taste you're looking for.

Spices should be stored in airtight containers, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them near your stove or in places where heat is constant. Try not to buy in bulk unless you plan on using them within a reasonable time frame. Ground spices, in particular, lose their potency quickly.

Check the expiry dates of your spices, and when in doubt, toss the old ones. Fresh spices can work wonders, bringing your cooking to life with vivid, bright flavours that the grinder can amplify.

8. Quality of Mixer Grinder: Not All Mixers Are Created Equal

Finally, it's worth mentioning that not all mixer grinders are made the same. If you've been using the same mixer for years and haven't noticed much improvement in spice grinding, it could be time for an upgrade. Higher-quality mixers are designed to handle spices more efficiently, with stronger motors, better blades, and more precise grinding mechanisms.

Investing in a quality mixer grinder might seem like an expense, but think of it as an investment in your culinary success. You'll notice a difference in the texture, aroma, and taste of your spices, and ultimately, your dishes will taste better. When buying a new mixer, check for features like variable speeds, powerful motors, and durable jars designed for spice grinding.  

Your spices deserve the best, and so do you.

Longway, Sansui, Butterfly To Havok, Check Out The Top Products Related To This Article On Flipkart

1. Longway Super Dlx 750 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

2. Havok Black_Mixer_4Jar 750 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

3. Flipkart SmartBuy PowerChef Premium 500 W Mixer Grinder

4. Sansui Plus 500 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

5. Preethi Tiara 500 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

6. Butterfly Plus 750 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

7. Growsmart MegaGrind 1100 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

8. Butterfly Arrow 500 W Juicer Mixer Grinder

Your mixer grinder, that everyday kitchen companion, might just be the reason your spices are tasting off. From dull blades and overheating to using the wrong jar size or grinding at the wrong speed, there's a lot that can go wrong. But fear not, with a little attention to detail and a few simple changes, you can bring your spice game back to life.

So, take a moment to assess your mixer grinder, ensure it's in top shape, and treat your spices with the respect they deserve. And if you need to replace it, here are 8 mixer grinders on Flipkart from Longway, Sansui, Butterfly to Havok. After all, nothing beats the magic of freshly ground spices, and with the right tools and techniques, you'll never have to settle for bland again.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.