The Classic Microplane Is My Most Used Kitchen Tool
For my first Christmas home after being away at college, my dad gave me a microplane. “This tool is invaluable,” he said gravely. I laughed and thanked him and thought maybe he was being a little dramatic.
A decade later, I’ve been proved horribly wrong. The microplane is my most-used kitchen tool and I evangelize it to anyone who will listen and force it on friends as a housewarming gift. I use it to grate cheese, especially hard cheeses like parmesan; to grate nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and other spices; to shave fennel; to zest citrus; and more.
If you already have a cheese grater, the Microplane might sound redundant, but it’s faster and easier to use, producing heaps of pecorino for cacio e pepe in no time. When it comes to citrus, the ultra-sharp blades are designed with a special tooth set that takes the colorful, flavorful rind while leaving the white, bitter pith behind. Whether you’re adding zest to baked goods or over cocktails, the Microplane is your best friend.