Creating Your Own Sorghum Press- A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Traditional Sorghum Sweetener

How to Make a Sorghum Press: A Comprehensive Guide

Sorghum, a versatile and resilient crop, has been a staple in many cultures around the world for centuries. One of the most important steps in processing sorghum is pressing it to extract its sweet syrup, which is then used to make a variety of delicious foods and beverages. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a sorghum press, a simple and cost-effective tool that can help you turn your sorghum into a valuable resource.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

– A piece of wood, approximately 1 inch thick and 2 feet long
– A saw
– A drill and drill bits
– A hammer and nails
– A lever or handle
– A wooden mallet
– A flat surface

Step 1: Cut the Wood

Start by cutting the piece of wood into two equal halves. The length of the wood should be at least 2 feet, and the thickness should be about 1 inch. This will serve as the base of your sorghum press.

Step 2: Drill the Holes

Using a drill, create two holes in the center of the wood base. The holes should be large enough to fit the lever or handle securely. Ensure that the holes are parallel to each other and evenly spaced.

Step 3: Assemble the Lever

Next, take the lever or handle and drill a hole through its center. The hole should be slightly larger than the diameter of the wood base. Insert the lever through the hole and secure it in place with a bolt and nut.

Step 4: Attach the Mallet

Now, take the wooden mallet and nail it to the lever, ensuring that it is securely fastened. The mallet should be able to move freely on the lever, allowing you to apply pressure to the sorghum.

Step 5: Create the Pressing Surface

On a flat surface, place the wood base with the lever and mallet attached. Using the saw, cut a piece of wood that is slightly larger than the base. This will serve as the pressing surface.

Step 6: Press the Sorghum

To press the sorghum, place the sorghum kernels on the pressing surface. Place the wood base on top of the sorghum, ensuring that the lever and mallet are positioned correctly. Apply pressure to the mallet, pressing the sorghum through the holes in the base. Continue pressing until all the sorghum has been extracted.

Conclusion

Making a sorghum press is a straightforward process that requires minimal materials and tools. By following these simple steps, you can create a cost-effective tool to extract the sweet syrup from your sorghum, opening up a world of delicious possibilities. Happy pressing!