As a sommelier and brewer, I have had my fair share of experience with crushing coriander seeds for both cooking and brewing purposes. While owning a spice grinder may be convenient, not everyone has one readily available in their kitchen. But fear not, there are alternative methods to crush coriander seeds without a spice grinder.
One method that I have found to be effective is using a rolling pin. This technique is simple yet effective, and all you need is a rolling pin and a plastic sandwich bag. First, ensure that the coriander seeds have cooled down completely before attempting to crush them. Hot seeds can be difficult to handle and may cause injury.
Once the seeds have cooled, place them inside a plastic sandwich bag, ensuring that the bag is securely closed. This will prevent any seeds from escaping during the crushing process. Lay the bag flat on a sturdy surface, such as a cutting board or countertop.
Now, take your rolling pin and firmly roll it over the bag of coriander seeds. Apply enough pressure to crush the seeds but be careful not to exert excessive force that may cause the bag to burst. The plastic bag acts as a protective barrier, preventing the seeds from flying off in different directions and making cleanup much easier.
Continue rolling the pin over the bag until you achieve the desired level of coarseness or fineness for your crushed coriander seeds. The length of time required may vary depending on the desired consistency and the strength of your rolling pin. I recommend starting with a few gentle rolls and gradually increasing the pressure if necessary.
Once you are satisfied with the crushed coriander seeds, carefully open the plastic bag and transfer the crushed seeds to a suitable container for storage. Glass jars or airtight containers work well to preserve the flavor and aroma of the crushed seeds.
If you don't have a spice grinder, you can crush coriander seeds using a rolling pin and a plastic sandwich bag. This method is simple, effective, and accessible to most home cooks. Just remember to let the seeds cool down before crushing, and be mindful of the pressure you apply with the rolling pin to avoid any mishaps. Happy crushing!