Microplane
A Microplane is a rasp-style grater featuring photo-etched stainless steel blades that slice rather than tear ingredients, producing fine, uniform particles ideal for zesting citrus, grating hard cheeses, and creating smooth-textured ingredients like garlic paste.
A Microplane is a rasp-style grater with photo-etched stainless steel blades that slice rather than tear food. Originally created as a woodworking tool in 1990-1991 by brothers Richard and Jeff Grace in Russellville, Arkansas, it crossed over to culinary use in 1994 when Canadian homemaker Lorraine Lee discovered her husband’s woodworking rasp worked brilliantly for zesting an orange for an Armenian orange cake.
How Microplane Works
The distinctive feature of a Microplane is its manufacturing process. Unlike traditional stamped graters that tear and shred food, Microplane uses photo-etching to create ultra-sharp cutting edges. This chemical process produces razor-sharp teeth that slice ingredients cleanly, requiring minimal pressure and producing fine, uniform particles that integrate seamlessly into dishes.
The photo-etched blades are made from stainless steel in the USA. Professional Series models feature non-slip rubber feet and reinforced construction designed specifically for the demands of commercial kitchens.
Professional Kitchen Applications
Chefs use Microplanes primarily for zesting citrus fruits and grating hard cheeses like Parmesan. The fine particles produced melt quickly into sauces and dressings without creating chunks or uneven texture. This makes it essential for vinaigrettes, pasta dishes, and finishing touches on plated entrees.
Beyond citrus and cheese, professional kitchens rely on Microplanes for grating garlic, fresh ginger, nutmeg, chocolate, and hard spices. The tool produces a paste-like consistency from garlic and ginger that distributes flavor evenly throughout dishes. For nutmeg and chocolate, it creates a fine snow that works perfectly as garnish.
Industry Adoption and Recognition
Microplane gained widespread professional adoption after a 1998 New York Times article by Amanda Hesser highlighted its superiority to traditional graters. Celebrity chef endorsements from Martha Stewart, Julia Child, Ina Garten, and Rachel Ray accelerated its acceptance in both professional and home kitchens.
The term “Microplane” is a registered trademark of Grace Manufacturing Inc., though it has become somewhat genericized in professional kitchens to refer to any rasp-style grater. The family-owned company now produces over 40 kitchen tools including various grater styles, peelers, herb mills, and specialty tools, but the classic rasp grater remains the industry standard.
Choosing and Maintaining a Microplane
Professional kitchens typically stock multiple Microplane styles: a classic zester for citrus, a coarse grater for cheese, and a medium grater for general use. Look for models with comfortable non-slip handles and stainless steel construction. The Professional Series offers the durability required for high-volume restaurant use.
The photo-etched blades stay sharp significantly longer than stamped graters, but they should be hand-washed and dried immediately after use. Run the tool under water in the direction of the grating surface to clear debris. Store with protective covers to preserve the sharp edges and prevent injury.
Common Uses
Professional kitchens use Microplanes primarily for zesting citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges) to add bright flavor without bitter pith, and for grating hard cheeses like Parmesan directly over pasta dishes or into sauces. Line cooks keep them at their stations for finishing touches—grating fresh nutmeg over desserts, creating garlic paste for vinaigrettes, or shaving chocolate as garnish. The fine particles produced integrate immediately into hot liquids and cold preparations without clumping or creating texture issues.