Overview

Universal presents the Estrella Cast Iron Manual Crank Corn Grinder, a refined blend of traditional Mexican craftsmanship and modern practicality. This 14-inch tall unit features a robust cast iron body and a compact 5-inch hopper that invites steady loading without crowding your workspace. The design emphasizes easy assembly and reliable grinding, aided by a straightforward tool-free setup and a simple clamp system that secures the grinder to countertops up to 1.5 inches thick. In daily use, this grinder offers a tactile, satisfying hand-crank experience that pairs well with hands-on cooking sessions, from weekend tortilla projects to quick spice mixes. By marrying heritage techniques with contemporary convenience, it becomes a dependable companion for home chefs who value texture, aroma, and the ritual of grinding fresh ingredients.

What you can grind and texture outcomes

Designed for coarse grains and small batches, it handles corn, wheat, coffee, spices, chickpeas, rice, and soybeans with a focus on texture rather than fine flour. This makes it ideal for fresh cornmeal, rustic tortillas, tamales, and flavor-forward grain mixes where bite and fragrance matter. The low hopper prompts deliberate feeding, helping you monitor texture and batch size as you cook.

• Upgraded design with tool-free assembly for quick setup and cleanup
• Authentic Mexican craftsmanship paired with durable cast iron construction
• Low hopper design makes loading grains easy and efficient for small to medium batches
• Grinds to a coarse texture suitable for masa, cornmeal, and other rustic uses
• Horizontal mounting and adjustable settings provide flexible grinding control
• Countertop clamping fits most surfaces up to 1.5 inches thick

Practical tips for best results

To get the most from the Estrella grinder, secure the unit firmly on a sturdy counter, choose the coarse setting for grains you want chunky or stone-ground-like textures, and clean after use to prevent residue buildup. The combination of long-lasting cast iron and simple maintenance supports frequent use without heavy upkeep.

• Easy maintenance with basic cleaning after each use
• Compact 14-inch tall profile fits on typical kitchen counters
• Invites handmade, artisanal textures without bulky equipment
• Simple maintenance promotes regular use and long-term enjoyment

What this means for your kitchen

This grinder offers a tactile, hands-on way to introduce texture and aroma into your traditional recipes. It supports small to medium batch work and pairs well with homemade tortillas, tamales, polenta, and spice blends. While it does not produce fine flour, its coarse grind can enhance the character of rustic dishes and everyday staples alike.