Why You Should Really Get a Mortar and Pestle
For some tasks, a mortar and pestle is better than a food processor, a blender, or even your trusty chef’s knife. Here’s why you need this old-school tool.
It’s a Flavor-Saver
The main reason to get a mortar and pestle? Taste. The bashing, pressing, and tapping motions are more effective at releasing the flavors in whatever you're grinding up (herbs, garlic, or spices) than any of your fancy electronic gadgets. The result: punchier pestos and spice blends that sing.
It Gives You Control
Have you tried to grind a few teaspoons of spices in your mini food processor? Ever hit the pulse button one time too many when making your chimichurri? When you're going hands-on, you can easily mash up small quantities of stuff and grind mixtures with more precision.
It Saves You Money
Sure, you have to buy a mortar and pestle, but a three- to four-inch model costs only around $20 and will last for years and years. That one-time investment will quickly pay for itself because whole spices are cheaper than ground spices and they stay fresher longer, too.
Ready to crush it? Try these recipes!
Roasted Heirloom Carrots with Coriander
Toast the coriander and cumin, then crush it up in a spice mill or with a mortar and pestle.
Fennel-Citrus Greek Tea Cookies
Keep things interesting by adding citrus zest and crushed fennel seeds to greek tea cookies.
Recipe: Try our Fennel-Citrus Greek Tea Cookies
Mixed Olive Pesto
No need to dirty up your food processor - you can make this olive pesto with a mortar and pestle!
Recipe: Try our Mixed Olive Pesto
Edamame Hummus
If you like your hummus extra chunky, mash all the ingredients together by hand.
Recipe: Try our Edamame Hummus
Chimichurri
This easy Chimichurri comes together in a flash. It's great on meats, chicken, and fish!
Recipe: Try our Chimichurri