What is a Traditional Hand Stone Mill?

What Is a Traditional Hand Stone Mill Everything you need to know

A traditional stone mill is used to grind grains like wheat, ragi etc., using two large, heavy stones. This process has been around for thousands of years and is still used by some people today. The mill has two main parts: the top stone, called the "runner," and the bottom stone, known as the "bedstone." The runner stone spins over the bedstone, crushing the grain between them.

How Does It Work?

1. Cleaning the Grains: Before milling, the grains are cleaned to remove any dirt or unwanted bits.
2. Grinding: The cleaned grains are fed into the millstones. As the runner stone turns, it grinds the grains into flour(ex: ragi) or broken consistently(ex: urad dal) based on your needs .
3. Sifting: In this step the ground content is transferred to a sifter and sifted.
4. Ready to Use: The freshly milled flour is now ready to use in your favorite recipes. 

Why Choose a Stone Mill?

Stone mills have some unique benefits:

• Nutrient-rich flour: Because the grinding process is slower and cooler, more nutrients are preserved in the flour compared to modern methods.
• Better flavor: Flour from a stone mill often has a richer, more natural taste.

In a world dominated by modern technology, traditional handmade stone mills offer a refreshing alternative. They promote a connection to tradition, preserve nutrients, and support artisanal craftsmanship. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a historian, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of traditional practices, stone milling is worth exploring.

What is the difference between Traditional Stone Mill and Electricity Flour Mill

In the world of milling, two distinct paths diverge; the traditional handmade stone mill and the electric mill. Each has its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. In this blog, we'll dive into the differences between these two milling approaches.

What is a traditional stone mill?

A traditional stone mill is a timeless tool used to grind grains into flour or a coarse texture, depending on your needs. It works by crushing the grains between two stone wheels, made from natural granite materials. This traditional method produces high-quality flour with a unique taste and texture, while also connecting you to the past.

What is an electricity mill?

An electric mill uses electricity to grind grains into flour quickly. It requires electricity to operate and employs steel rollers or blades for consistent results. It can handle large quantities of grain with ease and offers precise control over flour texture.

Here’s a simple comparison between traditional handmade stone mills and electric mills:

In conclusion, traditional handmade stone mills and electric mills represent two distinct approaches to grain processing. While electric mills offer speed and efficiency, traditional stone mills provide a more natural, gentle, and eco-friendly grinding process.

Top 6 Benefits of using Traditional Hand Stone Mill

In today's world of modern kitchen gadgets and processed foods, the traditional hand stone mill is a unique and valuable tool. Although it may seem old-fashioned, it offers numerous health benefits and enhances the aroma of your cooking.

Here are the top 6 benefits of using a traditional stone mill:

Healthier option:

Stone mills grind grains slowly and gently, preserving the natural nutrients of the grains. This method retains higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and fiber compared to the high-speed processing of modern machines. As a result, it is a more nutritious choice, benefiting you and your family with enhanced health advantages.

Cultural connection:

Using a stone mill links you to traditional food-making methods passed down through generations. It adds a touch of heritage to your cooking experience, connecting you to the past.

Versatile Grinding Option:

A traditional stone mill offers great flexibility, allowing you to grind grains to various textures based on your needs. You can achieve a fine, flour-like consistency for grains such as wheat and ragi, etc., or a coarser texture for ingredients like urad dal and moong dal, etc.,

Environmentally friendly:

Stone mills are an eco-friendly alternative to electric grinders. They require no electricity,  and they're durable and long-lasting, reducing waste. By choosing stone mills, you're making a sustainable choice for grinding grains.

Enhanced Flavor and Aroma:

The traditional grinding process of a stone mill releases natural flavors from the grains, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful cooking experience. The slower, gentle milling retains a rich taste and distinctive aroma.

Chemical-Free Nutrition:

Stone mills grind grains without additives or chemicals, keeping your food natural, healthy, and free from artificial ingredients. Enjoy clean, wholesome nutrition with every grind.

Using a traditional stone mill brings numerous benefits, from better nutrition and richer flavors to environmental sustainability. It reconnects us with timeless methods and ensures our food is genuinely natural and wholesome. By choosing a stone mill, we can rediscover a more authentic, nourishing way of eating and living.

Are you excited to explore the charm of a village-style stone mill? Don’t wait—click this link villagedecor.in  to get your traditional stone mill today.

The ultimate guide to finding the right Stone Mill for your needs

In today's modern world, traditional stone mills offer a unique touch. But with many options available, selecting the right one can be tricky. In this post, we'll guide you through our collection of handmade Stone Mills, highlighting their special features and what grains you can grind with each one - from wheat and ragi to urad dal and moong dal.

Before diving into the stone mill collections, you have to know there are two different types of stone mills there:

• Polished stone mill
• Unpolished stone mill

What is the difference between polished and unpolished stone mills?

Both polished and unpolished stone mills perform equally. The polishing stone mill only enhances the appearance, without affecting the performance or safety of the stone mill, and is totally non-toxic and chemical-free.

Now let's see the different sizes of stone mills and their different functionality.

1. The Traditional Polished stone Mill:

TYPE 1: DIA - 9 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 16.7 kg/36 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi,Raw Rice
• Suitable grains for broke: Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 4 to 5 people

TYPE 2: DIA - 10 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 20 kg/44 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi,Raw Rice
• Suitable grains for broke: Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 4 to 5 people

TYPE 3: DIA - 7 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 9 kg/19 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi
• Suitable grains for broke: Raw Rice,Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 2 to 3 people

2. The Traditional Unpolished stone Mill:

TYPE 1: DIA - 7 Inch(Image)

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 9 kg/19 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi
• Suitable grains for broke: Raw Rice,Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 2 to 3 people

TYPE 2: DIA - 10 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 20 kg/44 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi,Raw Rice
• Suitable grains for broke: Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 4 to 5 people

TYPE 3: DIA - 9 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight: 16.3 kg/35 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Ragi,Raw Rice
• Suitable grains for broke: Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 4 to 5 people

TYPE 4: DIA - 12 Inch

• Material: Granite
• Weight :30 kg/66 Pound
• Suitable Grains for flour: Wheat,Ragi,Raw Rice,Red Chili,Sorghum
• Suitable grains for broke: Moong Dal,Urad Dal
• Recommended People: 6 to 7 people

Find your perfect match with our handmade stone mills! Each mill is unique, offering a traditional touch to your cooking. From wheat to ragi, and urad dal to moong dal, grind a variety of grains with ease. Elevate your grinding experience and taste the difference freshness makes. Start your journey to flavorful ingredients today.

6 Easy Steps to Perfectly Season Your Traditional Stone Mill

Before putting your stone mill to daily use, it needs a little preparation called seasoning. This process smooths out the stone, removing any dust and excess particles accumulated in the stone mill, and making it ready for efficient grinding. In this blog, we'll walk you through the simple steps to season your stone mill.

Why is Season a Stone Mill important:

Seasoning a stone mill is a crucial step in preparing it for effective and efficient milling. Here’s why this process is so essential:

• Prevents stone dust 
• Prepares a Clean Surface
• Enhances grinding efficiency
• Extends the lifespan of the Stone mill

Let's Dive into the Seasoning Steps to Season Your Stone Mill.

Here are the 6 simple Step-by-Step Seasoning Process:

STEP 1: Wash and Dry the Stone Mill

Begin by thoroughly washing the stone mill with water to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. After washing, dry the mill completely, either by placing it in direct sunlight for 5 to 10 minutes or wiping it with a dry cloth. This ensures a clean, moisture-free surface for the seasoning process.

STEP 2:Use mat and towel underneath the stone mill

Place the stone mill on a mat or towel to prevent it from shaking or moving around during the grinding process. This will help keep the mill stable and ensure a smoother operation.

STEP 3: Pour the raw rice into the hopper

Now, take 1 bowl of raw rice and pour it into the hopper and then start grinding in a circular motion using a stainless steel handle.

STEP 4: Grind until it becomes a fine powder

Grind the raw rice 3-4 times until it becomes a fine powder, then wipe it off. You'll notice the dust is removed along with the powder. This ensures that the dust in the stone mill is removed.

STEP 5: Clean and dry again

Finally, clean and dry the stone mill thoroughly to remove any remaining powder and moisture.

STEP 6: Check and Repeat

If you still see dust in the stone mill, repeat Step 4 until the rice powder is clear and dust-free. This ensures the mill is clean and ready to use.

Do you want to see the seasoning process in action?

Tips and Reminders:

• Use raw rice for seasoning
• Don’t overfill the stone mill
• Repeat the above 6 steps one more time if dust is still present
• Store your stone mill in a dry place to prevent moisture damage

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to enjoy your traditional stone mill for years to come. Happy grinding.

How to use a Traditional Hand Stone Mill: A Step-By-Step Guide

Using a traditional handmade stone mill is a cherished process that links us to our past. It supports a traditional cooking method that retains more natural nutrients without chemicals. A stone mill keeps more of the grain’s authentic flavor compared to electric mills.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to using a traditional stone mill:

STEP 1: Wash and Dry the Stone Mill

Begin by thoroughly washing the stone mill with water to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. After washing, dry the mill completely, either by placing it in direct sunlight for 5 to 10 minutes or wiping it with a dry cloth. This ensures a clean, moisture-free surface for the seasoning process.

STEP 2: Use mat and towel underneath the stone mill

Place the stone mill on a mat or towel to prevent it from shaking or moving around during the grinding process. This will help keep the mill stable and ensure a smoother operation.

STEP 3: Pour the grains into the hopper and uplift the top stone slightly

Now, pour the grains into the hopper and then lift the top stone slightly to let the grains fall to the bottom stone. 

STEP 4: Grind continuously

Then, grind the grains repeatedly until you reach the desired consistency in a circular motion using the stainless steel handle.

STEP 5: Sift the ground content using a sifter

Once you reach the desired consistency transfer the ground content into the sifter and sift them. Now, the ground content is ready to use. 

STEP 6: clean and dry again

After using the stone mill, clean it well and ensure it is completely dry before storing it for future use.

Do you want to see the process in action?

By following these steps, you’ll be able to grind your own flour or meal, producing fresh and natural ingredients. Enjoy the process and the unique flavor of your homemade creations. Happy milling.

Do's and Don'ts of using Hand Stone Mill

Maintaining a stone mill is essential to ensure its longevity, performance, and the quality of the flour it produces. Proper care not only extends the life of your mill but also ensures it continues to operate efficiently. Here’s a straightforward guide on what to do and what to avoid to keep your stone mill in good condition.

DO’s:

1. Clean after each use: Cleaning the mill after each use prevents flour and residue from building up. Regular cleaning keeps the mill hygienic and helps it perform better for the next use.
2. Season the stone mill before first use: Season the stone mill properly before first use to remove dust particles and prepare it for optimal performance.
3. Keep the stone mill out of direct sunlight: Keep the stone mill out of direct sunlight to prevent damage and preserve its quality.
4. Use dry grains for milling: Village Decor Stone mills are designed for grinding dry grains. Use only dry grains, such as urad dal and moong dal etc., Note that the consistency of the ground content can vary based on the size of the stone mill.
5. Do Fix a Proper Place for the Stone Mill: Fix a proper place for the stone mill, as moving it frequently can lead to damage or breakage.

DON’Ts:

1. Don’t overfill the stone mill: Overfilling can cause the grains to jam and put pressure on the stones, leading to damage or breakage. Leave enough space for the grains to move freely.
2. Don’t lift the stone mill by the handle: Lifting the stone mill by the handle can cause it to slip or become unbalanced. To avoid this risk, lift the mill by its base for a more secure and stable grip.
3. Don’t store the top and bottom stones together: Storing the stones together can increase the risk of fungus development, especially during the rainy or cold seasons. To prevent this, keep the top and bottom stones stored separately.
4. Don't Use the Mill to Grind Wet: Village Decor Stone Mills are designed for dry grinding, and wet grinding is not recommended. Using the mill for wet substances can cause clogs, rust, or damage.
5. Don’t use soap or chemicals for cleaning: Soap and chemicals can leave residues on the stone mill that may affect the taste or quality of the ground content and can also damage the stone. Instead, wash it with water and dry it thoroughly before storing it.

By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll ensure that your stone mill remains in excellent condition, providing consistent performance and high-quality flour. Regular maintenance and proper care will extend the life of your mill and enhance your milling experience.

Top 6 Healthy and Nutritious Recepies using Stone-Milled Ground content:

In today's world, handmade ingredients and recipes are a healthier way to live. By incorporating stone-milled flours and broken ingredients into our meals, we embrace traditional methods that enhance both nutrition and flavor. Here, we'll share 6 simple recipes using:

• Ragi flour
• Wheat flour
• Raw rice flour
• Sorghum Flour
• Broken urad dal
• Broken moong dal

Explore the power of stone-milled flour and broken ingredients with us! Discover how these wholesome components can transform your everyday dishes into nutritious, flavorful delights. Let's dive into these easy, healthful recipes that celebrate the essence of natural cooking.

Recipe 1: Ragi Dosa

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi flour (ground using a stone mill)
• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed
• Oil for cooking

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, mix ragi flour and rice flour. Add enough water to make a smooth batter. Stir in cumin seeds, salt, onion, and green chilies.
• Heat a non-stick skillet or dosa pan over medium heat and lightly grease it.
• Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot pan and spread it into a thin circle. Drizzle a little oil around the edges. Cook until the edges turn crispy and golden brown. Flip if desired and cook for another minute.
• Enjoy with coconut chutney and sambar.

Recipe 2: Wheat Roti

Ingredients:

• 2 cups wheat flour (ground using a stone mill)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• Ghee or oil for brushing 

Instructions:

• Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
• Add water and knead the dough.
• Rest the dough for 30 minutes.
• Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
• Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
• Cook in a hot pan for 30 seconds on each side.
• Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.

Recipe 3: Rice Flour Idiyappam

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup rice flour (ground using a stone mill)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 Teaspoon oil
• 1/2 Teaspoon Salt

Instructions:

• Roast 1 cup rice flour in a pan until very hot, then set aside.
• In a pan Boil 1.5 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. 
• Add the hot roasted rice flour to the hot water, stir to combine, and let the dough rest covered for 15 minutes with the stove turned off.
• After resting, mix the dough, form small balls, and press them into strings using an idiyappam press onto idli plates.
• Steam the idli plates with the pressed dough for 10 minutes.
• Let the idiyappam rest for 5 minutes before removing. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

Recipe 4: Sorghum Roti

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sorghum flour(ground using a stone mill)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

• Mix sorghum flour and salt in a bowl.
• Gradually add warm water and knead for 5-7 minutes.
• Cover and rest the dough for 30 minutes.
• Divide into 4-6 portions.
• Roll out each portion into a thin circle 
• Heat a non-stick pan or tawa over medium heat.
• Cook the roti for 30 seconds on each side.
• Brush with ghee or oil.
• Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.

Recipe 5: Broken Urad Dal Vada

Ingredients:

• 1 cup split urad dal (ground using a stone mill)
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt
• Oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

• Soak urad dal in water for 4-5 hours.
• Drain and grind the dal into a smooth paste.
• Add onion,ginger,curry leaves,coriander leaves,cumin seed and salt. 
• Mix well and shape into small doughnuts.
• Heat oil in a deep frying pan and fry the vadas until golden brown.
• Drain excess oil and serve hot with sambar and chutney.

Recipe 6: Broken Moong dal Vada

Ingredients:

• 1 cup split moong dal (ground using a stone mill)
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon coriander leaves, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

• Soak moong dal in water for 4-5 hours.
• Drain and grind the dal into a smooth paste.
• Add onion, ginger, curry leaves, coriander leaves, Red chili powder, cumin seed and salt.
• Mix well and shape into small doughnuts.
• Heat oil in a deep frying pan and fry the vadas until golden brown.
• Drain excess oil and serve hot with sambar and chutney.

The recipes mentioned above are some of the top ways to use rice flour, ragi flour, sorghum flour, wheat flour, broken urad dal, and broken moong dal. For the best flavor and nutrients, try grinding your own flours at home with a traditional Stone Mills. It’s a great way to enjoy healthier and fresher ingredients in your cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traditional Hand Stone mill.

1)What is the purpose of using a stone mill?

A stone mill is used to grind grains and nuts into flour or the desired consistency, preserving their natural nutrients and flavor. It is fresh and healthy for cooking.

2)What are all the items we can grind?

You can grind all kinds of dry grains for ex. rice, ragi, Moong Dal etc., 

3)Do I need to season the stone mill?

Yes, Add the right amount of raw rice to the stonemill and grind 3-4 times until it becomes a fine powder.This helps to remove the dust particles in the stone mill.

4)Is the stone mill heavy to handle?

Yes, stone mills are heavy due to their durable construction, which ensures stability while grinding grains and also ensures longevity.

5)How do I clean my Stone mill after grinding the grains?

First, you have to remove flour residue by using a dry cloth. After that rinse it with water. Finally, dry the stones thoroughly to prevent rust.

6)How do I store my stone mill when not in use?

To store your stone mill, clean and dry it thoroughly, and keep it in a dry place away from direct sunlight and also cover it with a cloth or bag to protect from dust and moisture.

7)How durable is the stone mill?

Stone mills are extremely durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The stone wheels are typically made from high-quality black stone, which is resistant to wear and tear.

8)What Is the Difference between polished and unpolished stone mills?

Both polished and unpolished stone mills perform equally, the polishing stone mill only enhances the appearance, without affecting the mill's performance or safety and is totally non-toxic and chemical free.

9)What kind of polishing method is used, and is it chemical-free?

We use both dry and wet polishing methods to polish the stone mill. Both are hygienic and safe and also chemical free.

10)Do the Yellowish or Black patches affect the stone mill performance?

Yellowish or dark black patches on the stone mill are natural, they are just part of its appearance and it doesn't affect the performance of the stone mill.