Many hand graters have surfaces for shredding too.
Many people use the term grating and shredding interchangeably. Actually, the two are different processes that create different results. When a menu calls for grating or shredding, knowing the difference between the two makes your meal more successful. There are all types of graters and shredders on the market, but having one that gives you surfaces for both processes, in varying degrees from fine to coarse, comes in handy.
Size
Grated food differs in size and shape from shredded food. Shredded food has a thread-like shape. Grating creates finer pieces, even as small as powder like Parmesan cheese.
Consistency
Shredding food results in a smoother end product. Grating creates uneven surfaces. The difference in consistency makes each method suitable to different food preparations. Shredded carrots, for example, are fine in cole slaw where the texture of grated carrots in the same dish isn't as pleasant.
Cooking and Melting Time
The difference in the surface area created by grating or shredding changes the speed by which it cooks. For example, shredded cheese melts slower than grated, fine pieces. So shredded cheese best suits the top of casseroles where grated cheese melts quickly for sandwiches.
Tags: grating shredding, cheese melts, Grating creates, shredded cheese