The hopper of a particular mill can accommodate slightly more than 800 grams, thus 400 grams of each wheat berry were weighed for grinding. It is recommended to have a reliable kitchen scale for such tasks. The mill is equipped with two 85-mm millstones made from ceramic and corundum, a type of oxide mineral. These millstones are designed with a very coarse surface that is capable of grinding not only grains but also dried corn, beans, and lentils. To achieve a fine grind for all-purpose flour, the mill was set to its finest setting by turning it clockwise until the millstones touched. With the help of the mill’s 360-watt motor, approximately 6.5 cups of freshly milled wheat flour were produced in about five minutes.
The noise level of the mill was not as high as anticipated, although it remains quite audible. Placing a lid on the grain hopper helps to reduce the sound.
The resultant all-purpose flour blend was successful, producing a finely ground flour comparable to commercially available brands. While the grind was slightly less fine than store-bought flours, as it contained tiny specks from the wheat berries, the results were satisfactory with the flour possessing the expected fluffy powdery texture.
In both cookie and mini bread loaf recipes, the fresh flour performed similarly to commercial brands, delivering great and familiar textures. However, recipe adjustments might be necessary when using freshly milled flour due to its structural components, including the bran and germ from the wheat berry.
One significant observation was the flavor enhancement in baked goods made with fresh flour. The cookies and loaves had a greater depth of flavor, being almost nutty and distinctly wheatier, which was a delightful improvement.
Although coarse grains have not yet been tested, there is confidence in the mill’s capability to handle them efficiently. While the Sana mill is a considerable investment, it is a durable piece of equipment that provides excellent and rapid results.
For cleaning, the process is straightforward: simply unscrew the hopper and occasionally brush off the stones, or alternatively run some rice through the mill. Regarding durability, the millstones are expected to endure with minimal wear, given their robust construction.
