I simply hate wasting any good food, and, when I peel an orange or use a lemon, it bugs me to throw away all that lovely zest, packed with delicious citrus oils and vitamin C. But I have to be honest, struggling with a traditional grater, which shows no discrimination between the lemon rind and my finger-tips is a toil involving little pleasure.
So I absolutely adore the Microplane Premium Classic Zester and their new range of limited edition designs, which merge beauty with practicality.
Microplane® classic zesters are a bit special. Their design was inspired by a Canadian housewife in the early 90s, who, fed up with her traditional grater, borrowed one of her husband’s wood-working tools… They really are quite unique, clever and attractive.
What I love about them is their long and slim stainless steel blade which has regular photo-etched micro-teeth – 400 of them. They’re so sharp that they make zesting completely effortless, but thanks to the strong handle and long blade, one can keep one’s fingers well out of the way.
Just gently rubbing the blade against a lemon created a pile of perfect zest, leaving the pith intact on the lemon. I absolutely love the eye-catching limited edition designs on the handles – the featured one is named Tropical. The tiny anti-scratch ‘feet’ on the end mean that you can stand it in a pan or bowl for more stability and because the micro-teeth all face in the same direction, it’s really easy to wipe clean, although you can also put it in the dishwasher. What’s more, they all have a protective cover to save you accidently hurting yourself when they are in the drawer.
Besides citrus fruits, you can use the zester for other things too –you can grate ginger root, chocolate, spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon – and if you’re really cooking something special, how about truffle? It’s easy to grate tiny or larger amounts and the zester is attractive enough to take its place at the dinner table.
The Microplane® Funky Edition Premium Classic Zester is available in a choice of attractive designs to suit any kitchen: Safari, Skull, Ombre, Tropical and Black Marble. Available for RRP £24.95 from hartsofstur.com however at the moment they’re on offer at £17.47 so take a look – you’ll love them.
By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk
Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.