Behind the Box: Testing the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel are a crucial component for anyone serious about grinding their own meat, vegetables, or other ingredients. LEM Products is a well-respected name in the game, and these plates promise durability and consistent results. They offer a 3/8-inch (10mm) hole size for a medium grind, suitable for sausages, chili, or even prepping ingredients for canning.
My journey to this product started with a desire for greater control over the ingredients in my homemade sausages. Store-bought sausage often contains unwanted fillers and preservatives, and I wanted to avoid those. I was tired of inconsistent grinds using cheaper plates.
The LEM Products plate arrived well-packaged. The stainless steel immediately felt robust and heavier than the cast iron plate I was replacing. The machining looked precise, with clean, consistent holes, giving me confidence right out of the box.
I considered cheaper alternatives, but the consistently positive reviews of LEM Products’ quality and durability swayed me. I also looked at plates from Weston, but I went with LEM due to the readily available parts and LEM’s reputation for longevity. Initial impressions were strong; this looked like a serious piece of equipment, not a flimsy afterthought. I was excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel was on a batch of venison sausage. I used my LEM #22 grinder and about 10 pounds of venison mixed with pork fat. The grinding process was noticeably smoother and faster than with my old plate.
I was grinding in a relatively cool environment (around 40°F) to keep the fat from melting, which can clog the grinder. The stainless steel plate seemed to handle the fat better than my old cast iron one. Cleanup was also much easier.
I was impressed by how quickly and efficiently the plate processed the meat. There were no jams or stalls, and the grind consistency was uniform throughout the entire batch. This first experience was a definite success, boosting my confidence in the LEM Products plate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel continues to impress. I’ve used it to grind everything from beef and pork to chicken and even cooked vegetables for soup bases. It has tackled everything with ease.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. I take good care of it, washing it immediately after use and drying it thoroughly before storing it with a light coat of food-grade mineral oil. Maintaining the plate is simple; it’s much easier to clean than my old cast iron plates, thanks to the smooth stainless steel surface.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper grinder plates, the LEM plate is a clear winner. It consistently produces a better grind, requires less effort, and shows no signs of degrading. This has proven to be a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel
Specifications
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel is designed for use with #20 and #22 size meat grinders. Its diameter is 3.25 inches, and the hole size is 3/8 inch (10mm). The plate is constructed of stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
The stainless steel construction is crucial for hygiene and longevity, especially when processing raw meat. The 3/8-inch hole size is ideal for a medium grind, striking a balance between coarse and fine. This size is perfect for sausages, chili, and many other applications.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently delivers a uniform grind, which is essential for achieving the desired texture in your finished product. The plate works perfectly with my LEM grinder, fitting securely and smoothly.
Its strengths lie in its consistent performance and ease of cleaning. The only area for potential improvement might be a slightly thicker plate for even greater durability, but the current thickness seems adequate. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The plate’s design is straightforward and functional. The stainless steel material feels sturdy and well-made. The weight gives you a sense of quality without being cumbersome.
The design is inherently user-friendly; there’s no learning curve. It fits perfectly into my LEM grinder, and I was grinding meat within minutes of opening the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the stainless steel construction and my careful maintenance, I expect this plate to last for many years. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wash with hot, soapy water followed by thorough drying and a light coat of mineral oil keeps it in top condition. The stainless steel resists rust and corrosion, further extending its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel is a standalone component. It does not come with any additional accessories. However, LEM offers a wide range of other grinder plates with different hole sizes to achieve different grind consistencies.
You can easily swap out this 10mm plate for a finer plate (e.g., 4.5mm or 3mm) for pâtés or a coarser plate (e.g., 13mm) for more rustic sausages. The compatibility with other LEM products provides plenty of customization options.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Consistently delivers a uniform medium grind.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Compatible with all #20 and #22 LEM grinders.
- Significantly improves grinding speed and efficiency.
Cons
- The price is higher than cheaper cast iron options.
- Does not come with any included accessories (e.g., a storage case).
Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel?
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel is perfect for home sausage makers, hunters who process their own game, and anyone who wants greater control over the ingredients in their ground meat. It’s ideal for those seeking consistent results and a durable product. People who enjoy making chili, meat sauces, or their own burger blends will find this plate invaluable.
Those on a very tight budget or who only occasionally grind small amounts of meat might be satisfied with a cheaper alternative. Someone who requires a very fine or very coarse grind might need to purchase multiple plates with different hole sizes.
Must-have accessories would include a dedicated cleaning brush and food-grade mineral oil to keep the plate in optimal condition. Having a selection of different grinder plates with varying hole sizes would also be beneficial for maximum versatility.
Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about home meat grinding. Its durability, consistent performance, and ease of maintenance justify the price. The plate significantly improves the grinding process and produces a superior end product.
The stainless steel construction ensures hygiene and longevity, making it a smart choice for frequent users. I would highly recommend this plate to anyone looking to upgrade their meat grinding setup.
If you’re tired of inconsistent grinds and flimsy equipment, pull the trigger on the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 10mm, Stainless Steel. You won’t regret it. Get ready to take your sausage-making and ground meat recipes to the next level!
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