How to Grind Flax Seeds

Flaxseed is a nutritious seed rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and antioxidants. In order for the nutrients in flaxseed to be properly absorbed, you need to grind the flaxseed before using it. You can also grind flaxseeds by hand or use a blender to make it easier. Either way, you’ll have freshly ground flaxseed in minutes!

Table of Contents

Grind by hand

Using a flaxseed mill is the fastest and easiest option. A flaxseed mill is a tool similar to a coffee mill, but specialized for grinding flax seeds. Open the jar lid and pour the flaxseed into the jar. Hold the mill over the bowl or plate, then simply turn the top of the mill clockwise to grind the flaxseeds. You can grind 1 tablespoon (15 g) of flaxseeds in less than 30 seconds. ^{[1] X Research Source}

Alternatively, you can use a blender to easily sprinkle ground flaxseed on top of smoothies or salads.
If you don’t use flaxseeds regularly, buying a flaxseed mill won’t do you much good.

A spice grinder or a pepper mill is a less expensive option. Open the top of the spice mill and pour in 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 g) of flaxseeds. Close the lid of the blender jar and turn the crank for 1-5 minutes until the flaxseeds are ground to the desired size. ^{[2] X Research Source}

Finely ground flaxseed will fall out neatly through the bottom of the blender, so hold the mill over the dish or container.
This method can be time consuming. If your hands feel tired, rest for about 30-60 seconds.

Try using a pestle and mortar to crush flaxseeds. This way, you can grind 1 tablespoon (15 g) to 1 cup (240 g) of flaxseed in batches. Pour the flaxseeds into the mortar (bowl-shaped object), then use a pestle (hand-held mill) to grind the flaxseeds in the mortar. Press down on the pestle several times to puree. Grind continuously for 3-5 minutes until the flaxseeds reach the desired size. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

The pestle and mortar are usually made of stone. The weight of the stone will help grind the seeds effectively.

Use an electric blender

Using a coffee grinder is a quick and effective method. Measure out 1 cup (240 g) of flaxseeds or less per batch and pour into the blender. Adjust the fineness setting to grind the flaxseeds for about 10-15 seconds. This is an easy way to add nutrients to a meal. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

Rinse the coffee grinder after it is finished grinding.
Do not overfill flaxseeds. If you do, the blender may be damaged in use.

Use a food processor if you don’t need to puree. A food processor can easily grind 1-3 cups (240 – 700 g) of flaxseeds per batch. Place the flaxseeds in the blender, select the best puree and grind for about 5-15 minutes until the seeds reach the desired size. While grinding, you may need to open the lid from time to time and stir the flaxseeds with a spatula to make it easier to grind them all. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

Although effective, this method will also take a lot more time than other methods.

Preserving flaxseeds

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Store whole flaxseeds at room temperature for up to 1 year. To make the most of it, buy whole flaxseeds in bulk from specialty stores or health stores. You can store flaxseeds at room temperature for up to 1 year and grind in small amounts as needed. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

To keep your flaxseeds fresh, replace them every 2-3 months.

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Pour ground flaxseed into an airtight container. Once you’re done grinding, pour the flaxseeds into a glass jar or plastic food storage container. Close the lid tightly to ensure that air does not enter to damage the seeds. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

Store ground flaxseed in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It is best to use flaxseeds as soon as they are finished grinding to maximize the nutrients in the seeds. However, you can store flaxseeds in the refrigerator for several days. ^{[9] X Research Source}

If ground flaxseed has a bitter taste, it is spoiled and must be discarded. Flaxseeds often have an earthy smell and taste like hazelnuts.

Advice

For maximum absorption of nutrients, you should grind flaxseeds just before eating.
Use golden flaxseed and brown flaxseed interchangeably when cooking or baking. Both of these have the same taste.
If you don’t eat eggs, you can substitute eggs with ground flaxseed mixed with water in many recipes.
You can buy ground flaxseed at the grocery store, but it’s much more economical to grind it yourself.
Flaxseeds are often added to cereals and smoothies for added nutrition.

Warning

If you eat unground flaxseed, you’re essentially wasting its nutrients.

Steps

Grind by hand

Use an electric blender

Preserving flaxseeds

Advice

Warning

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