Okay, let’s be honest, sometimes I feel like we’re all just a little too plugged in. That’s why I’ve been trying to find ways to reconnect with simpler things – you know, the kind of stuff our grandparents did without even thinking about it. That’s what led me to the Wzglod Vintage Small Stone Mill. I’d been playing around with sourdough (with mixed results, I might add!) and even started making my own spice blends. Grinding my own flour and spices? It just seemed like the next, slightly crazy, step.
When the mill arrived, I was immediately struck by how beautiful it was. Seriously, the pictures online don’t do it justice. The granite stone feels solid and authentic, and the wooden frame gives it this lovely, old-fashioned vibe. Setting it up was a breeze – the frame practically snaps together. I went with the medium-sized mill; seemed like a good compromise between being able to grind enough and not taking over my entire counter.
So, first up: whole wheat flour. I followed the instructions to a T, cleaning everything meticulously. That initial rice grinding? Definitely a weird experience, but hey, you gotta follow the rules! Now, let me tell you, working that hand crank is work. Forget the gym – just grind a few cups of flour! But honestly, there’s something deeply satisfying about feeling those grains slowly transform into flour right before your eyes. It’s almost meditative.
The flour I ended up with? Definitely not the super-fine stuff you get at the store. It’s got some texture, a little bit of grit – but that’s what makes it special. It gave my rustic bread this amazing, hearty quality. Since then, I’ve been grinding everything from peppercorns to coriander. And the smell? Forget about it! So much more intense and vibrant than anything you can buy pre-ground. It’s like unlocking a whole new level of flavor.
The Good Stuff:
- The Real Deal: This isn’t some plastic imitation. This is how people actually used to do things.
- Flavor Explosion: Freshly ground spices? Mind-blowing. Seriously.
- You’re in Control: Want a coarse grind? Go for it. Finer? Just keep cranking.
- Kitchen Eye Candy: It’s beautiful! It just looks right sitting on the counter.
- Versatile Beast: Dry stuff, wet stuff – this thing grinds it all.
A Few Hiccups:
- Bring Your Muscles: This is not a push-button operation. Be prepared to sweat a little.
- Rustic is the Word: Don’t expect perfectly smooth flour. It’s got character!
- Cleanup Crew: It’s not hard to clean, but you have to be thorough to get all the bits out.
The Verdict?
Look, the Wzglod Vintage Small Stone Mill isn’t for everyone. If you’re all about convenience, stick with the store-bought stuff. But if you’re looking for a way to slow down, connect with your food, and add a little bit of magic to your kitchen, this mill is worth every penny. It’s a conversation piece, a fun project, and a way to make your cooking just a little bit more special. It’s definitely found a permanent home in my kitchen. If you’re even a little bit curious, I say go for it. You might just surprise yourself.