About mortar and pestle

A mortar and pestle is a tool used for crushing, grinding, and mixing substances, particularly in cooking and pharmacy. It consists of two parts: a bowl-shaped container made of a hard material such as stone, wood, or ceramic, marble, and a hand-held, club-shaped implement called a pestle.

To use a mortar and pestle, the substance to be ground or mixed is placed in the bowl, and the pestle is used to grind and crush it against the sides and bottom of the bowl. This action breaks down the substance into smaller particles, allowing it to be blended more thoroughly or used in a recipe.

Mortar and pestle have been used since ancient times, and they remain a popular tool in many kitchens and laboratories today due to their simplicity and effectiveness. They are particularly useful for grinding spices, herbs, and other ingredients that require a fine, even texture.

Why you should have mortar and pestle in your kitchen

Freshness: Grinding spices, herbs, and other ingredients in a mortar and pestle ensures that they are fresh and aromatic, releasing their full flavor and aroma. Pre-ground spices can lose their potency over time, but with a mortar and pestle, you can grind them as you need them.

Versatility: A mortar and pestle can be used for a variety of tasks, from crushing garlic to making pesto to grinding spices. It can also be used to create your own spice blends, and marinades.

Control: When using a mortar and pestle, you have complete control over the texture of the ingredients you're grinding. This is especially useful when making dishes that require a specific texture, such as guacamole or curry paste.

Connection to history and tradition: Mortar and pestle have been used for centuries and are a part of many cultures and cuisines. Using one in your kitchen can help connect you to the history and traditions of the food you're preparing.

Eco-friendly: Using a mortar and pestle is a great way to reduce waste in the kitchen. You can buy whole spices and herbs in bulk and grind them as needed, instead of buying pre-packaged, pre-ground spices in plastic containers.

Is marble good for mortar and pestle? 

Yeah, marble makes a fantastic mortar and pestle material. Ingredients can be crushed and ground in marble because it is a dense, hard, and non-porous substance. It's also simple to maintain and clean.

It's vital to bear in mind when using a marble mortar and pestle that it may be vulnerable to chipping or splitting if dropped or subjected to great force. Hence, it's crucial to handle it carefully and refrain from grinding items that are very tough or dense.

Moreover, marble can erode or become discolored when exposed to some acidic materials like lemon juice or vinegar. It is recommended to choose a different material, such as granite or ceramic, if you intend to grind acidic materials.