The Ultimate Guide to Grinding Flaxseeds at Home
Welcome to flaxseed grinding 101.
I’m assuming you got a stash of flaxseeds after hearing all about their “superpowers” and now want to learn the best way of grinding those little seeds.
I don’t blame you. They’re amazing.
Here’s a quick reminder of their benefits:
- Omega-3s: These fatty acids are amazing for your heart and brain health. Grinding the seeds makes it easier for your body to absorb these CRUCIAL nutrients.
- Fibre: Ground flaxseeds are like a smooth operator for your digestive system, helping everything run like a well-oiled machine.
- Antioxidants: Free radicals don’t stand a chance with the antioxidants from ground flaxseeds.
To get those benefits, you really need to grind them up.
Our bodies are a bit lazy when it comes to breaking down whole seeds. Grinding them cracks the outer hull and releases the benefits of brown flax in just seconds.
There are several ways to go about grinding them. Each method has its own charm (and efficiency).
I’ll go through each. Personally, I do not have a favourite one. I’m an old-school girl, and a pestle-and-mortar is always an attractive choice at any time, any day.
But I don’t expect everyone to love it.
The guide below is about to become your go-to resource for all things flax grinding. I’ll share every method I know for grinding flaxseeds.
Ready? Let’s get those flaxseeds from whole to wholesome in no time 🙂
Methods for grinding your flaxseeds
Pick your choice to turn those tiny seeds into nutritional gold dust:
1. A flax mill
Perhaps the fastest, best way to achieve a perfectly fine grind without any fuss.
What’s great about it: A flax mill is specifically designed for these seeds, making it a top-notch choice for a fine grind.
How to do it: Pop your seeds in, twist, and watch the magic happen. It’s as satisfying as it sounds.
They’re not cheap. This Peugeot Isen-Flax Mill Fax Seed will do the job nicely.
But if the price tag makes you do a double-take, don’t worry—check out the alternatives below.
2. Mortar and pestle (old school but gold)
What’s great about it: This method lets you feel like a kitchen wizard (or witch, in my case) and gives you control over the texture.
How to do it: Crush those seeds with a bit of elbow grease. It takes a bit of time, but take it as a mini workout, and, yes, in the end it is super gratifying.
Any pestle and mortar will do. Just for the sake of it, here’s the one I recommend.
3. Blender OR food processor is quick and easy
What’s great about it: Perfect for when you’re in a rush or need to grind a big batch.
How to do it: Blitz for a few seconds, and you’re done. (Just make sure not to turn it into flaxseed butter, unless that’s exactly what you want – I’ve never done it).
You probably already have this gadget in your kitchen. Just in case you don’t, I recommend this inexpensive one.
That’s all you need, and you can use it for so many other things too.
4. Coffee grinder for a super fine grind
What’s great about it: It’s fast, efficient, and gives you a super fine grind.
How to do it: A quick buzz and you’ve got yourself some flaxseed flour. Just clean it well prior to using it unless you enjoy coffee-flavoured flaxseeds.
Haven’t got an electric coffee grinder? Check this one, see if you like it.
Tips for grinding flaxseeds
Fresh is best. Always. This is the whole (organic) flaxseed I recommend.
Grind RIGHT BEFORE you use them to keep the nutrients intact.
Start with small batches to keep it fresh. Ground flaxseeds can go rancid quicker than you’d think.
Store your ground flaxseeds in a cool, dark place. Think fridge or a dark, cool pantry. This keeps the nutrients from breaking down too fast.
An airtight container is your best friend here. It keeps the moisture out and the freshness in. This is the one I recommend but if you shop around you might find a set that offers even better value. can find a set that ends up being cheaper.
FAQs you might have
Can I grind flaxseeds in advance?
Sure, but freshness is key. Try to grind what you’ll use within a week for the best nutritional punch.
Why do I have to grind them?
Whole flaxseeds can pass through your body without giving up their nutrients.
Grinding them makes sure you’re not missing out.
It’s worth it, believe me.
Any ways to use all these ground flaxseeds?
Oh, plenty!
I wrote a blog post just on this: 21 easy, simple and quick ways in which you can eat your flax seeds.
It also includes ways to eat them whole, so there you go.
Conclusion
And there you have it – your very own guide to grinding flaxseeds.
It can’t get any more straightforward than that.
What are you waiting for?
Let’s get grinding!
