Purpose of the Fourth Side of Your Cheese Grater

Understanding the Four Sides of a Box Cheese Grater

Before diving into the fourth side specifically, let’s briefly summarize the typical roles of each:

1. Coarse Grater Side: Large holes for shredding cheese, vegetables, or chocolate into thick strands.
2. Fine Grater Side: Smaller holes for zesting citrus or finely grating hard cheese like Parmesan.
3. Slicer Side: Horizontal slits with sharp edges to create thin slices of vegetables or cheese.
4. The Fourth Side: Usually the least noticed, this side often features tiny, sharp raised points or small perforations designed for grating finely or scraping — but its purpose goes beyond just cheese.

What is the Fourth Side For?

The fourth side is often called the “rasp” side or microplane-style grater surface. Its key uses include:

• Grating hard spices like nutmeg or whole dried ginger.
• Zesting citrus fruits finely without getting the bitter white pith.
• Creating superfine grated ingredients for delicate garnishes.
• Preparing small amounts of finely grated chocolate or garlic.
• Even useful for softening butter or cheese by finely grating for quick melting.

In short, the fourth side excels at creating ultra-fine textures that add bursts of flavor or texture to dishes without overwhelming them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Fourth Side of Your Cheese Grater

Step 1: Identify the Fourth Side

• Look for the side with the smallest, sharpest perforations or raised teeth.
• It will feel rougher and more abrasive to the touch compared to other sides.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredient

• Choose a hard or firm ingredient such as a lemon or lime for zest, a whole nutmeg seed, a clove of garlic, or a small piece of hard cheese.
• Make sure the item is clean and dry for best results.

Step 3: Position the Grater

• Hold the grater firmly with one hand, ideally over a plate, bowl, or cutting board to catch the grated bits.
• If using a box grater, place it on a stable surface; if handheld, grip securely.

Step 4: Grate with Gentle, Controlled Strokes

• Rub the ingredient gently but firmly against the fourth side in a downward motion.
• Avoid pressing too hard; let the sharp teeth do the work.
• Rotate the ingredient as needed to grate all usable parts.

Step 5: Collect Your Finely Grated Ingredient

• Tap or scrape off the grated bits with a spoon or your fingers.
• Use immediately as a garnish, seasoning, or ingredient in your recipe.

Practical Examples of Using the Fourth Side

• Nutmeg: Freshly grate a little nutmeg into eggnog, béchamel sauce, or baked goods for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add finely grated lemon or orange zest to salad dressings, desserts, or marinades for a bright, fresh aroma.
• Garlic: Finely grate garlic to mix into sauces, dips, or spreads without large chunks.
• Chocolate: Grate a bit of dark chocolate over desserts or coffee for a decorative, flavorful touch.

Bonus Tips

• Clean the fourth side carefully with a brush or toothbrush to remove tiny stuck bits.
• Be cautious as this side is very sharp; grate away from your fingers.
• Store your box grater in a dry place to prevent rust and maintain sharpness.

Why You Should Never Overlook the Fourth Side

While it may seem minor compared to the larger holes or slicer, the fourth side of your cheese grater is a hidden gem that can elevate your cooking. It allows you to incorporate delicate, finely grated elements that deliver concentrated flavor and beautiful texture. From seasoning to garnishing, mastering this side expands your kitchen skills and brings new life to everyday meals.

Ready to try out your grater’s fourth side? Pick a lemon, nutmeg, or garlic and give it a go! You might be surprised at how often you reach for it once you understand its purpose.

Would you like some recipes where you can showcase the fourth side grating?