The best wooden mortar and pestle is a kitchen tool that's been used for thousands of years, yet remains as indispensable as ever. We've selected our favorite models from trusted makers to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
A high-quality wooden mortar and pestle set gives you a tactile cooking experience, while also being kinder to your herbs and spices than metal would be. It can create rich, earthy flavors in your seasonings or dishes that no other material can quite match. A good set will have a long handle so that you can reach the bottom of the mortar without having to crouch over it when grinding food or mixing ingredients together.
When shopping for one of the best wooden mortar and pestles, look out for tough but light materials like wood - traditionally made from oak, but now available in many different varieties depending on aesthetics and durability too - mixed with materials such as stone or marble if needed for extra durability. The size of your chosen model should depend on how much food you usually prepare at any given time, so think about whether you tend to cook small family meals or entertain large groups more often; larger models may be more useful if this is the case! If you want something that looks truly unique on your countertop too, check out our guide to the best spice grinders too.
How We Choose
We've reviewed the top wooden mortars and pestles on the market to help you find the perfect tool for your kitchen. Whether you're looking for a stylish addition to your countertop or need an efficient instrument for grinding herbs and spices, our guide will help you find the perfect match.
With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Our guide narrows down the field by only featuring products made from high-quality wood with positive customer reviews. We've also taken care to include a variety of styles and sizes so that everyone can find something that fits their needs.
Samhita Acacia Wood Mortar and Pestle
I have always been drawn to unique kitchenware, and the Samhita Acacia Wood Mortar and Pestle set certainly fits the bill.
The pieces are hand-crafted from natural wood, so they look beautiful while also being practical. The pestle is heavy duty and durable enough for everyday use, while the mortar is compact and easy to store away when not in use. The set comes with a wooden pestle that's 5 inches long by 4 inches wide, as well as a mortar that measures 6.5 inches across.
This makes it easy to crush herbs or spices without having to buy multiple tools for different tasks. It can be used for crushing garlic or ginger, but it's also great for other uses such as grinding coffee beans or nuts. I love how stylish this kitchenware set looks on my countertop - it adds a touch of elegance to any space!
Acacia Wood Mortar and Pestle for Garlic
Samhita's traditional mortar and pestle set is a great tool for anyone looking to get started with the ancient art of spice grinding. The wooden pestle is sturdy enough to crush whole spices into a fine powder, while the mortar is perfect for grinding herbs, seeds, and other ingredients.
The set comes with four different pieces that are all beautifully crafted from sustainable hardwood materials. The unique design of this product makes it sturdy and easy to use without any fear of breakage or damage. This is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to start learning how to grind their own spices at home or just wants a good quality mortar and pestle set that they can rely on in the kitchen.
It's also worth noting that this product comes with a lifetime warranty which means you can rest assured knowing you're getting some great customer service if anything ever goes wrong.
DecorRack Mortar and Pestle in Natural Bamboo
The DecorRack Bamboo Mortar and Pestle set is a great option for anyone looking to start cooking with a mortar and pestle. This set comes with everything you need to get started, including a bamboo base that is both lightweight and durable.
The 4-inch diameter of the bowl means you can easily crush ingredients, while the 5.5-inch pestle makes it easy to work with larger quantities. The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, while the bamboo construction ensures this tool will stand up to repeated use without breaking down over time.
You'll love how easy it is to clean this mortar and pestle set – simply rinse it out after each use and let it dry before putting it away so your kitchen stays clutter-free at all times!
Aelegantmis Mortar and Pestle Set with Lid
The Aelegantmis Bamboo Spice Mill is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started with spice grinding. It comes with a lid, pestle, and spoon, making it easy to get started right away. The bamboo material is both sustainable and healthy, so you know this product will be durable and eco-friendly.
The mill has a large capacity of 1/4 cup, which means you won't have to stop every few seconds to empty it out. It also has a non-slip base so your ingredients stay where they should be while grinding. This makes it perfect for use in any kitchen setting whether at home or at work. Not only is the design functional but it's also aesthetically pleasing; the wood grain pattern gives the mill a unique look that fits in with any style of décor.
Considering its great design, affordable price point and high quality materials used - we think this spice grinder is worth every penny!
Wooden Mortar And Pestle FAQs
A good wooden mortar and pestle set is a must-have for any home cook, but with all of the different options it can be tough to figure out which one is best for you.
Fortunately, we've created a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions about wood mortars and pestles so that you can make an informed decision before making your purchase. With this information, you'll be able to confidently choose the perfect set for your needs.
Is Wood Good For Mortar And Pestle?
Yes. While marble is often used for traditional pestles, there are many reasons why wood makes a suitable alternative. First and foremost, it's more cost effective. Even though natural materials can be pricey, that's offset by the fact that pestles made of wood will last longer than marble ones.
Wood is also easier to clean up compared to marble, another reason why it was historically chosen as a primary material for pestle making. Lastly, and in our opinion most importantly, it has better flavor release properties compared to marble. Yes, we've done the taste tests (they were delicious).
Does A Wooden Mortar And Pestle Need To Be Seasoned?
Seasoning a wooden pestle will help prevent splinters and keep it from absorbing too much water, which can make it heavy and hard to use. To season your wooden pestle, first clean the pestle with soap and warm water. Then wrap the pestle in 100% cotton cloth (such as an old T-shirt) and coat it with cooking oil or food-grade mineral oil. Using a cloth prevents the oil from soaking into the wood too quickly; apply just enough to cover the surface of the pestle. Set aside for at least 24 hours so that the wood can absorb some of the oil. After waiting, reapply a small amount of oil to your mortar and pestle before using it. This process may need to be repeated every few months if you use your mortar regularly. It's important not to submerge or soak your wooden mortar in water because this will warp its shape over time.
What Is The Best Wood For Mortar And Pestle?
Most mortar and pestle sets are made of wood, usually either hardwood or a softwood like beech. While any kind of wood will work in a pinch, the best pestles and mortars are made from hardwoods like maple or rosewood. These woods have dense grain and high density which translates to a sturdy tool that can handle vigorous pounding without cracking.
Though it's less common, you can also find pestle and mortar sets made from coconut shell, bone, stone, or metal (though these tend to be more expensive). The benefit here is that each material has its own unique flavor profile when it comes to the final product. So finding one that matches your cooking style could bring an interesting new dimension to your dishes!
How Do You Clean Wooden Mortar Pestles?
Wooden mortars and pestles can be cleaned in the sink or dishwasher. If you have a wooden pestle, do not submerge it in water as it may absorb too much moisture and crack. Instead, wipe clean with a damp cloth. For a mortar, fill with water and baking soda (equal parts), then shake to loosen any caked-on food particles. Remove the mixture with an old toothbrush after letting stand overnight. Alternatively, place a small amount of water into the mortar along with some dish soap, then vigorously shake until clean. Rinse thoroughly afterwards by hand or in the dishwasher on the delicate cycle using cool to lukewarm water only.
Why Can't You Use Soap On A Mortar And Pestle?
Soap can damage the surface of your mortar and pestle. It's not a smart choice to clean these utensils with dish soap or hand soap unless you want to ruin them. Most mortars are made of ceramic, stone, or marble, which is porous and therefore absorbs stains. You only need to clean a mortar and pestle when it's really necessary: after handling strong-smelling foods like garlic or onion; if food gets stuck inside the bowl; or if there's an unpleasant smell coming from it.
The best cleaning method for a mortar and pestle is water followed by a light application of cornstarch. If you do use soap on your mortar and pestle, make sure that you thoroughly rinse off all traces of the soap so as not to leave any marks behind once you start using it again.
What Happens If You Don't Season A Mortar And Pestle?
If you don't season a mortar and pestle, then it won't be nonstick. You can do this by rubbing in a little vegetable oil, such as coconut or olive oil, with a paper towel. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper to line the surfaces of your mortar and pestle.
A properly seasoned mortar and pestle will let spices fall out after crushing them; if they stick to your utensil you need to season it more thoroughly.
Can You Put Oil In A Mortar And Pestle?
It's not recommended. Putting oil in your mortar and pestle changes the consistency of its contents, which can affect how well it blends together. Your best bet is to choose a mortar and pestle that's specifically designated for dry ingredients like flour, nuts, seeds, and spices. Alternatively, you can use a separate bowl or measuring cup along with your mortar if you really need to add oil while blending.
If you do put oil in your mortar and pestle, be sure to blend it only until the ingredients are thoroughly combined but not completely smooth (like mayonnaise). Over-blending will create too much heat within the bowl or on the surface of the ingredients, which could burn you as you grind them. Chances are there won't be enough room for all of your ingredients anyway unless you have a very small mortar and pestle set (such as one meant for seasoning individual dishes), so don't go overboard with adding more elements either unless you want to make an even messier situation out of things.
What Pestle And Mortar Does Gordon Ramsay Use?
Most of the time, Ramsay uses a pestle and mortar to create sauces and flavorings. Many professional chefs use marble mortars because they don't transfer flavors from one food to another. If you want to invest in a mortar and pestle, choose one made from marble or porcelain as these materials won't absorb flavors either. You can also choose a metal mortar but we recommend you avoid plastic ones as they often don't mix ingredients well.
Ramsay's preference is for granite mortars with wooden pestles but he has been seen using other types on TV shows, including marble versions. We're not sure which type exactly he uses but it's likely to depend on what is available at the location of filming.
What Can You Use A Bamboo Mortar And Pestle For?
Although it may be a little too soft for some tasks, bamboo can be ideal for crushing or grinding herbs and spices. The porous nature of the material also makes it suitable for mixing small quantities of liquids together in a dish. This is perfect if you want to keep your kitchen utensils away from unwanted smells!
A bamboo pestle and mortar can also be used to grind nuts into flour or even crack open the shells of eggs if you don't have an egg slicer on hand. You can even use the pestle as a rolling pin on occasion, although we wouldn't recommend doing this regularly.
How Do You Sterilize A Mortar And Pestle?
It's not necessary to sterilize your mortar and pestle unless it becomes soiled with a greasy ingredient, like melted butter or mayonnaise. Greasy substances can be cleaned off the pestle with hot water, dish soap, and elbow grease. If you're concerned about bacteria growth in your mortar and pestle, clean it thoroughly after each use by filling it with very hot tap water and a liberal amount of kosher salt. Let the salt dissolve completely before emptying out the water. Adding vinegar to the salted water will give your mortar and pestle an extra cleaning boost if you have stubborn stains inside its bowl. Be sure to add just enough vinegar so that it dissolves in the hot water; too much could damage your mortar and pestle's finish.
If you prefer to sterilize your mortar and pestle for regular use instead of spot cleaning, soak it in a solution of equal parts white distilled vinegar and purified (or boiled) water for at least 30 minutes but no more than two hours. You can also buy specialty bowls online that fit securely on top of your traditional bowl without transferring flavor or absorbing odors from other ingredients.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best wooden mortar and pestle, there are several important factors to take into consideration. Firstly, you should assess what type of ingredients you will be crushing or grinding with the tool – this will help determine which type of material makes the most sense for your needs. Secondly, consider how often you plan to use the mortar and pestle as this will dictate how durable it should be. Thirdly, look at size and shape as well as design features such as handles and grips that may make using it more comfortable. Lastly, think about cost to find an option that fits within your budget without sacrificing quality. By considering these aspects when shopping around for a new wooden mortar and pestle, you can get one that suits your needs perfectly while also offering great value for money in the long run.
