If you've watched my videos and seen me using the Zojirushi automatic sesame grinder, you might have thought, "Wow, that thing's really cool, I need one too!" But then it arrives, and you realize... everything is in Japanese, and you have no idea how to set it up or use it. Well, you're in luck, and this guide is meant for you!
I've gotten so many questions about how to use this gadget properly that, even though I have no affiliation with Zojirushi, I decided to put together my own user guide (in English). You're welcome, Zojirushi.
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🧑🍳Who This Grinder is For
This grinder is great if you:
- Want better flavor from sesame seeds without extra effort
- Cook Japanese or Asian dishes regularly
- Prefer freshly ground ingredients over pre-ground
If you’re used to pre-ground sesame, this is a simple upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.
🌾Why Freshly Ground Sesame Seeds Matter
Freshly ground sesame seeds have a much stronger aroma and deeper flavor compared to pre-ground ones. Once ground, sesame seeds quickly lose their oils and fragrance.
Grinding them right before serving brings out their full nutty richness, which is why this tool is commonly used in Japanese cooking.
⚙️How to Use the Zojirushi Sesame Seed Grinder
- First step is to open the bottom cover by sliding the latch and inserting four AA batteries. Make sure to follow the picture and insert the batteries correctly. Close the cover and push the main button on the side to check if it turns on.
- Open the top lid and pour in toasted sesame seeds leaving about ½ inch of space at the top (if you're toasting sesame seeds on your own, make sure to wait for it to fully cool before adding it in).
- The small notch on the lid can be aligned with the notch on the clear part which creates an opening to sprinkle whole seeds without griding them.
- Open the flip cap to the spout and hold the main button on the side to grind the seeds. There's no need to tilt it too far, about 30 degrees from upright is best.
- The three dots on the side (above the main button) is where you control how fine or coarse the seeds are ground. The smaller dot is the finest, medium is in the middle, and the large one is the most coarse. Rotate the top (clear) portion so that the white line aligns to your preferred setting.
- The triangle setting at the end is to separate the entire top section of the grinder. This allows you to open it up and clean the inside, which should be done every now and then (with the brush that's provided).
- The two white plate/gear pieces can come out. Make sure to align it properly when reinstalling.
- Align the white line to the triangle again and turn it the opposite direction (towards the dots) to close it.
✍️Final Thoughts
And there you have it! I hope this helps those of you who got the machine but weren’t quite sure how to use it. It’s a fantastic little gadget for anyone who loves cooking with sesame seeds, and freshly ground toasted sesame takes the flavor to a whole new level. It may be small, but it can make a big difference in your cooking! If you interested in buying one, check out the link here.
🤔Common Questions
Perhaps, but I've never tried. The manual says: do not use it for anything other than sesame seeds so I recommend following that.
Yes, the manual states: sesame seeds that have not been roasted or properly roasted may have issues being ground.
The way I've always done it is with a pan on the stovetop. Heat up a medium to large skillet over medium heat and place the seeds in a single layer across the pan. Wait until you hear/see the seeds start to pop then stir. Let it sit until it starts to pop again and mix again. Repeat until the seeds are golden color and have a toasty smell. Remove from heat quickly and allow to completely cool.
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