peneiros

Peneiros are handheld kitchen sieves used to separate solids from liquids or to sift dry ingredients. The term comes from Portuguese and refers to a small, portable sieve or strainer. In practice, a peneiro consists of a circular or oval frame that holds a fine mesh, often with a short handle or a supporting rim. They come in different sizes and materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic.

Sizes range from small, cone- or bowl-shaped sieves to larger devices designed for batch processing. The mesh count and rigidity of the frame determine suitability for fine powders versus rinsing or straining. Peneiros are common in home kitchens as well as in bakeries and other food-preparation environments, where quick, light filtering is required.

Common uses include sifting flour to aerate it and remove lumps, sifting powdered sugar or cocoa, rinsing rice or small grains, and straining stocks, broths, sauces, and beverages. They can also be used to strain purées or to remove seeds and solids from fruit mixes, and to briefly filter hot teas or infusions.

Maintenance is straightforward: rinse after use, remove any trapped particles, and dry thoroughly to prevent rust on metal meshes. Some peneiros are dishwasher-safe, but delicate meshes may require hand washing. Proper storage keeps the mesh intact and the frame from bending.

See also: sieve, strainer, mesh filter.