Looking like an ancient oil lamp at a quick first glance, it evokes images of Aladdin in The Book of One Thousand and One Nights. However, it is not lamp, and it is definitely not ancient. In fact, it is a modern kitchen appliance, a Trudeau One-Hand Peppermill Model 0713000, that every cook is sure to appreciate.
What looks like a lamp nozzle out of which flame burns is actually an ergonomic lever that activates a grinding mechanism. It is attached to the upper section of the acrylic body of the peppermill which houses the grinders. The lower part, made of clear transparent plastic, holds peppercorns.
The upper section is contoured to fit the palm keeping pressure off the thumb web as the fingers reach for the grinding lever to squeeze it. With this kind of hold, the other hand is free to stir the food as ground pepper, or other spices, rain on it. The grinding mechanism consists of ceramic grinders that are slightly harder than carbon steel.
An edge over steel grinders is that ceramics are impervious to rust. It is for this reason that the Trudeau One-Hand Peppermill can be used to pour freshly ground pepper over a steaming pot of meat or seafood stew. It is also for the same reason that the mill can be used to grind salt crystals. In addition to peppercorn and salt crystals, the mill can also handle other spices and herbs such as coriander and fennel seeds, anise, or basil.
Another advantage of ceramic grinders is that they do not generate heat that could adversely affect the spices and herbs. There is also no need to sharpen them as they are self-sharpening.
The mill is available in four finishes –stainless steel, red, yellow, and brown. It is 8.8 inches tall with a diameter of 2.2 inches at its widest.