Can You Use a Grain Mill to Make Homemade Cornmeal?

Choosing the Right Grain Mill

When selecting a grain mill for making homemade cornmeal, look for a model that can handle dry, hard grains like corn. A burr-style mill, which uses two abrasive surfaces to crush the grains, is a good choice. Avoid impact-style mills, which can generate heat and damage the grains. Some popular options include the Wonder Mill and the KoMo Grain Mill, which can process 20-40 pounds of corn per hour.

Milling Technique and Settings

To produce high-quality cornmeal, use the following milling technique: start with a coarse grind setting (about 1/8 inch) and process a small batch of corn to check the consistency. If the meal is too coarse, adjust the setting to a slightly finer grind and repeat the process. For a finer cornmeal, you can also use a sifter or a fine-mesh screen to remove any large particles. A general guideline is to mill the corn until it reaches a size of about 150-200 microns (0.006-0.008 inches).

Safety and Maintenance Considerations

When milling corn, it’s essential to follow proper safety protocols, including wearing protective eyewear and a dust mask. Regularly clean and maintain your grain mill to prevent clogging and ensure optimal performance. After each use, wipe down the mill with a dry cloth and store it in a dry place. Additionally, consider using a separate container for storing the milled cornmeal to prevent cross-contamination with other grains.