Small Granite Mortar and Pestle

Small Granite Mortar and Pestle for Spices and Herbs

Pre-ground spices lose their flavor fast, and a spice grinder is loud and hard to clean. For a teaspoon of cumin or a few peppercorns, a small mortar and pestle is quicker, and the flavor is noticeably stronger.

This set is made of solid dark granite with a lighter speckled pestle. The mortar is about 9.5 cm (3.8 in) across and 5 cm (2 in) tall, so it's built for small amounts: a spoonful of spices, a couple of garlic cloves or a handful of herbs. Fresh-ground spices in a minute, with a stone that's heavy enough to stay put.

Why granite over other stone mortar and pestle sets?

Granite is hard and heavy. It doesn't move around while you grind, it won't chip like softer stone, and it doesn't hold smells the way wood does. The inside has enough texture to grip seeds, so they get crushed instead of sliding around.

What to grind in it

• Peppercorns, cumin, coriander and fennel seeds
• Cardamom pods and whole cloves
• Garlic and ginger paste
• Fresh herbs with salt for a quick rub
• Small batches of pesto or chili paste
• Crushed nuts for a topping

For a big bowl of guacamole or a full batch of curry paste, you'll want a larger mortar. This size is for everyday spice work.

How to use a mortar and pestle

Toast whole spices in a dry pan first for more flavor. Grind with a circular motion rather than pounding hard, and work in small amounts.

How do you clean and season a granite mortar and pestle?

Before the first use, season it: grind a handful of dry white rice until it turns to powder, rinse, and repeat until the powder stays clean. That clears out any loose grit from the stone. After that, rinse with warm water and a brush, and skip the soap, since stone can hold on to the taste. To clean out strong flavors, grind a spoonful of dry rice, then rinse. Let it dry completely.

Shipping: free shipping on US orders.

It's a small change that makes everyday cooking taste better. Add it to your cart, or browse more kitchen tools.