Restaurant chefs, having discovered that freshly ground spices are more flavorful and potent than the pre-ground kind found in jars, have taken to grinding their own whole spices. Some of them use machines originally meant to grind coffee beans, but there are grinders intended specifically to grind spices. Among them is the Cuisinart Spice and Nut Grinder SG-10
This Cuisinart kitchen tool is cylindrical in structure which consists of three parts –a transparent lid, a stainless steel bowl, and the motor casing at the base. Inside the bowl are blades, also of stainless steel, that are specially designed to grind spices such as peppercorns, flax, cloves, mustard seeds, or fennel; as well as nuts including pecans, walnuts, almonds, and peanuts. These blades guarantee that the size of the ground items is consistent, regardless of how fine or coarse you want them to be.
The bowl can hold as much as 90 grams of ground spices or nuts but if you want additional storage, you can use the grinder lid. A lid for this can be purchased separately.
The lid acts as the on and off switch which activates the motor when pressed. A safety interlock mechanism prevents it from accidental activation. Unless the lid is securely in place, the motor will not start. Non-slip rubber feet prevent from the machine skidding or sliding off the counter. Cleaning is a breeze as the lid and removable steel bowl are dishwasher safe.