Mortar pestle

Types of mortar pestle

A mortar pestle is an ancient traditional tool used to crush, grind, and mix different substances. It has a large bowl-like mortar and a club-shaped pestle. There are various types of mortar pestles based on their material and use. These are some of the most common types.

• Based on Material

• Wooden mortar pestle:

  These pestles are made of hardwoods like oak, teak, or walnut and have a smooth finish. Wooden mortar pestles are light and easy to handle. They are ideal for grinding spices, herbs, and soft ingredients. Often, these pestles come with decorative designs to add to their aesthetic appeal. However, they are not suitable for hard ingredients like salt or nuts.

• Metal mortar pestle:

  Metal mortar pestles are durable and long-lasting. They are great for grinding tough and hard ingredients. They are easy to clean and maintain. However, they may react with acidic or alkaline foods, affecting the taste and quality of the food.

• Granite mortar pestle:

  This granite pestle is a heavy and durable tool that can crush hard spices and seeds easily. It would be best for grinding tough and hard ingredients like spices, herbs, and nuts. The polished surface makes it easier to clean and maintain. However, it is heavier than other pestles, so it may be challenging to handle for some people.

• Marble mortar pestle:

  A marble mortar pestle is made of solid and heavy marble material. It has a smooth and polished surface that makes it easy to grind ingredients. It is great for grinding spices, herbs, and seeds and has a stylish and elegant look. However, it may be more expensive than other mortar pestles.

• Ceramic mortar pestle:

  These ceramic mortar pestles are versatile and can be used for various grinding needs. They have a smooth and polished surface that makes them easy to clean. They are often available in different colors and designs. But they are fragile and can break or chip easily if mishandled.

• Commercial blender:

  It is a modern tool that uses electricity to grind and blend ingredients. It has a powerful motor and sharp blades that can crush hard substances quickly. It is great for making smoothies, soups, and sauces. The commercial blender is easy to use and clean. However, it may not give the same flavor or texture as traditional grinding methods. It also uses more energy than other traditional tools.

• Based on Shape

• Flat mortar pestle:

  A flat mortar pestle has a flat bottom with no curve and a large pestle. This design makes it easy to grind spices and herbs. It is suitable for grinding large quantities of spices and herbs.

• Deep mortar pestle:

  A deep mortar pestle has a curved bottom with a small pestle. This design helps keep the ground material inside the mortar. It is suitable for grinding large quantities of spices and herbs.

Designs of mortar pestle

There are many different kinds of mortar and pestle sets, each with its unique qualities. Some are built for grinding spices, while others are more suited for making herbal medicines. The variety of materials used to make them, such as wood or stone, can also result in different appearances and functions.

• Modern design

  These designs are for those who like things to be clear and modern. They often have sleek lines made from materials like stainless steel or glass, which can look very cool in a contemporary kitchen.

• Vintage design

  Vintage designs evoke the past with their ornate carvings and brass or bronze accents. These models add some old-world charm to any garden or kitchen.

• Minimalistic design

  For simplicity lovers, minimalistic designs feature clean lines, geometric shapes, and monochromatic color palettes. These look good in a modern kitchen.

• Rustic design

  Rustic designs embrace natural elements, having wooden materials and rough finishes that give it a farmhouse touch.

• Artisanal design

  Handcrafted designs focus on uniqueness, showing craftsmanship through pottery or wrought iron material usage.

• Eclectic design

  It combines different styles, having bright colors and unusual patterns, thus creating a unique look.

• Industrial design

  Industrial designs incorporate exposed metal parts and concrete, making them look like industrial kitchenware.

• Bohemian design

  Bohemian designs include hand-painted ceramics with rich textures and patterns.

Usage scenarios of mortar pestle

The usages of mortar pestles are countless. They are useful for:

• Grinding Spices

  For cooking enthusiasts, the mortar pestle is the best tool for grinding whole spices into a fine powder. It breaks down the spices' tough skins into smaller bits, allowing the spices to release their true flavors, enhancing the dish's overall taste.

• Making Sauces and Dressings

  Crushing garlic with a mortar pestle makes a flavorful garlic sauce perfect for pasta or as a dressing for savory dishes. Crushed fresh garlic mixed with olive oil, salt, and a bit of vinegar makes a simple yet delicious dressing for salads.

• Grinding Herbs

  Grinding herbs with a mortar pestle gives a fresher and more vibrant flavor than pre-packaged dried herbs. They can be used to make herb pastes or mixes for marinating meats or flavoring sauces.

• Making Guacamole

  A mortar pestle mashes avocados into guacamole's desired texture. It crushes avocados into a creamy paste while retaining some chunkiness, giving the dip a natural flavor.

• Making Pesto

  Traditional basil pesto made by crushing fresh basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts into a paste using a mortar pestle, then slowly adding olive oil to emulsify it. The result is a fresh-tasting pesto that has a better taste than store-bought ones.

• Making Spice Blends

  Mortar pestles are great for making customized spice blends. Whole spices like cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds can be ground together to make a powder. They can then be used to season dishes or given as gifts to family and friends.

• Making Beauty Products

  Crushed coffee beans mixed with sugar and olive oil create a natural body scrub. The coffee's texture exfoliates the skin, and the olive oil moistens it, giving a rejuvenating shower.

How to choose a mortar pestle

• Material

  For heavy-duty work, opt for a material like granite that will withstand continuous grinding. When grinding spices, go for a less porous material like stainless steel. If grinding small amounts of soft herbs, wood and porcelain work fine. If one plans to grind a variety of things, choose the one that will work best for all the intended uses.

• Size

  Choose a size that can accommodate the volume of the ingredients. For small amounts, a 4-inch mortar will suffice. For larger quantities, a 6-inch mortar will be needed. Always remember that a large mortar can handle small quantities, but a small mortar may not be able to handle large quantities.

• Shape

  The mortar should have a rounded bottom that matches the pestle. This ensures that the pestle can easily reach all parts of the mortar. The sides should be sloped to facilitate the grinding process. If the sides are straight, the ground ingredients will remain stuck at the bottom of the mortar.

• Grain

  A rough grain is suitable for grinding spices and making pastes. A fine grain is ideal for grinding salt and making fine powders. If the grain is too coarse, the salt may get stuck in the grooves and remain ungrounded.

• Handle and weight

  Choose a mortar with sturdy handles that can support the weight. The mortar should be heavy enough to withstand the force used when grinding without slipping or moving. The pestle should be heavy to reduce the effort needed to grind.

Q&A

Q1: What is the best pestle material for soft spices?

A1: For soft spices like cardamom, a wooden pestle works well.

Q2: How can one prevent scratches on glass surfaces while grinding?

A2: To prevent scratches, use a grinding mat or cloth under the mortar.

Q3: What is the difference between a mortar and pestle and a spice grinder?

A3: Whereas a mortar and pestle gives one control over the coarseness of the grind, a spice grinder is electric and faster.

Q4: Can one use a mortar and pestle for items other than cooking?

A4: Yes, it can be used for grinding pills, making crafts, and more.

Q5: How does one clean a mortar and pestle?

A5: Rinse it under water, using mild soap if necessary, and then let it dry.