The hopper of the mill comfortably accommodates slightly more than 800 grams, so 400 grams of each type of wheat berry were measured using a kitchen scale. The millstones, measuring 85 mm, are made from ceramic and corundum, an oxide mineral known for its durability. These millstones, with their rough surface, are capable of grinding a variety of items, including grains, dried corn, beans, and lentils. For producing all-purpose flour, the mill was set to its finest grind setting by turning the mill clockwise until the user could hear the millstones make contact. The 360-watt motor enabled the milling of approximately 6.5 cups of freshly milled wheat flour in about five minutes.
The noise level of the mill was lower than expected, although it was still somewhat loud. Placing the lid on the grain hopper helped to reduce the noise further.
In terms of the resulting flour, the all-purpose flour blend was successful, with the Sana mill producing a finely ground flour similar to store-bought brands. Although the grind was slightly less fine compared to commercial flours, as there were tiny specks from the wheat berries, the results were satisfactory. The flour maintained the familiar powdery fluffiness associated with commercial flours.
In tests with cookies and mini bread loaves, the fresh flour performed comparably to any commercial brand, resulting in textures that were familiar and satisfactory. However, recipes might require adjustments to account for the structural makeup of freshly milled flour, which includes the wheat berry’s bran and germ.
A notable difference in using freshly milled flour was the enhanced flavor. The cookies and loaves possessed an additional depth of flavor, described as nutty and noticeably wheatier, which elevated the taste.
Future plans include grinding coarser grains, with confidence in the Sana mill’s capability to handle such tasks. Though the Sana comes with a steep price, it is considered a reliable piece of equipment that delivers excellent results efficiently.
Regarding maintenance, cleaning is straightforward: the hopper can be unscrewed, and the stones brushed off periodically, or some rice can be run through it for deeper cleaning. The millstones are highly durable and are expected to withstand years of use without significant wear.
