How to Grind Flax Seed

Last Updated: December 18, 2022 References Approved

Flaxseed is a nutritious seed rich in omega-3 fatty acids and soluble fiber. To properly absorbs the nutrients from flaxseed, it must be ground up before consuming. You can either grind flaxseed by hand or using an electronic machine, which is easier. No matter which option you choose, you'll have freshly-ground flaxseed within minutes!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Grinding by Hand

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Grind your flaxseed with a flax mill for the easiest, quickest option. A flax mill is a specific appliance similar to a coffee grinder used to grind flaxseed. Take off the lid and pour your seeds into the top with the wide opening. Hold the flax mill over a bowl or plate. Then, simply twist the top clockwise to grind the seeds. You can grind 1 tablespoon (14.8 g) in less than 30 seconds.
- In addition, you can use a mill to easily top a smoothie or salad with ground flaxseed.
- If you do not use flaxseed regularly, it may not be cost-effective to invest in this device.
2
Use a spice grinder or pepper mill for an inexpensive option. Remove the top of the spice grinder and pour in about 1-2 tablespoons (14.8-30 g) of flaxseed. Replace the lid and crank the handle for 1-5 minutes until the flaxseed is ground to the desired size.^{[1]
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- The ground flaxseed falls neatly out of the bottom, so hold the grinder over your meal or a storage container.
- This method can be time-consuming, If your hand or wrist gets tired, take a break for 30-60 seconds.
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3
Try using a mortar and pestle to finely grind your flaxseed. With this method, you can grind 1 tablespoon (14.8 g) to 1 cup (236.6 g) at a time. Pour the flaxseed into the mortar, which is the bowl-shaped object. Then, swirl the pestle (the hand-held grinding tool) around the mortar to mash up the seeds. Press down on the pestle repeatedly to grind them. Do this consistently for 3-5 minutes until you reach the desired consistency.^{[2]
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- Mortar and pestles are commonly made out of marble and stone. The weight of the stone works great to grind seeds.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using an Electronic Machine

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Try a coffee grinder for a quick and effective method. Measure 1 cup (236.6 g) or less of seeds at a time, and pour the seeds into the grinder. Use the finest grinding setting to grind your flaxseed for 10-15 seconds. This is an easy way to add nutrients to your meals.^{[3]
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- When you are finished, clean your coffee grinder.
- Do not fill your coffee grinder past the maximum fill line. If you do, you can damage the grinder when you use it.
2
Use a food processor if you don’t need your seeds finely ground up. A food processor can easily grind 1-3 cups (236.6-709.8 g) of flaxseed at a time. Pour your seeds into the food processor, pick the finest grinding setting, and grind your seeds for 5-15 minutes until they are the desired size. As you grind, periodically take off the lid and stir up your flaxseed with a spoon to make them easier to grind it up.^{[4]
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- While this works well, it takes significantly longer to grind your flaxseed than other methods.
3
Choose a blender to grind your flaxseed for an easy household solution. Pour about 1 cup (236.6 g) of flaxseed into your blender. You can either use a measuring cup or eyeball this amount. Secure the lid on top, and select the finest grinding setting on your blender. Grind the flaxseed for 3-10 minutes until it is ground to your liking.^{[5]
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- After your flaxseed is ground up, you can pour it into a bowl or jar so it is easy to use.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Storing Flaxseed

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Store whole flaxseed at room temperature for up to 1 year. For the cheapest option, purchase whole flaxseed in the bulk section of health and specialty grocery stores. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 1 year, and grind small amounts as you need them.^{[6]
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- For maximum freshness, replace your flaxseed every 2-3 months.
2
Transfer your ground flaxseed to an airtight container. After you grind up your flaxseed, put it into a glass Mason jar or a plastic Tupperware container. Secure the lid to ensure air doesn't spoil the seeds.^{[7]
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3
Keep ground flaxseed in the fridge for up to 7 days. Ground flaxseed is best used immediately to maximize nutrient absorption. However, you can store ground flaxseed in the fridge for several days.^{[8]
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- If your ground flaxseed tastes bitter, it is bad and you should throw it away. It typically tastes earthy and nutty.

Community Q&A

Question

Do flax seeds need to be ground to be effective?

Community Answer

Yes, you need to grind the flax seeds in order for your body to properly absorb the nutrients. It also makes them easier to digest. If you don't grind them, they will just pass through your body.
Question

Why are almonds soaked and skins peeled?

Community Answer

Because it is easier to peel when they're are soaked. The skin causes constipation, so that's why they're peeled.
Question

I'm not able to grind the seeds with a pepper mill. They are too light and don't fall into the grooves. Using a blender takes forever. Any advice?

Karley Snyder

Community Answer

If you have a coffee grinder around the house, this is a fast and easy way to grind flaxseed. You can also try a mortar and pestle for an easy way to grind your flaxseed by hand. Both are rather inexpensive options if you want to purchase a device to help you grind flaxseed.