Mortar and pestles made from granite are built to last. They are generally reliable, and can be passed down through the ages without losing any of their potency. When you’re going for a more natural flavour or texture in your ground-up substance, a granite mortar and pestle is the way to go instead of a modern blender.
Whether you want it powdered or ground to a specific size, they usually offer the more preferable alternative. Granite mortars are highly favoured above its rivals because of its superior work surface.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Top 5 Picks Of The Best Granite Mortar And Pestle You Need For Your Kitchen In 2020
- M.V. Trading Mtp92 Stone (Granite) Mortar And Pestle
- Thai Super-Size Granite Mortar And Pestle
- Chefsofi EXTRA Large 8 inch 5 Cup-Capacity Mortar And Pestle Set
- Cilio Granite Mortar And Pestle Set
- Cole & Mason Granite Mortar & Pestle
There are a few things to look out for when shopping for a high-quality granite mortar and pestle set. Before we get to the reviews, let’s go over a few of them so you can see what I mean.
Granite Mortar And Pestle – Buyers Guide
1. The Size Of Mortar As Well As The Quantity Of Item To Be Processed
There is a wide range of sizes available for mortars, so it is important to know how much material you will be crushing before making your purchase. It’s true that larger materials require a more substantial mortar. Smaller options are not the best choice when you need to handle a big item. Think about where you’ll put the mortar and pestle, too. Select an option that can provide its original function while also fitting in well with your family’s needs.
2. Smoothness Of The Working Surface
A mortar with a very smooth working surface may spill its contents around on impact because to the absence of friction, but a mortar with a very rough working surface will be difficult to clean and maintain and will provide a difficulty when scraping off the contents it was used for. Choose mortar that incorporates a combination of the two for the best quality and ease of use.
3. Weight Of The Mortar
Since the weight of granite mortars and pestles can vary widely depending on their size and level of detail, it’s crucial to make sure you’re purchasing one that you can handle without help. Keep in mind that the pestle’s repeated impact on a granite mortar with a very light base can cause the mortar to shake violently and potentially dislodge it from its intended location. It’s best to use a mortar with a sturdy foundation, but not one that’s so cumbersome that you need a crane to carry it. You shouldn’t have to exert a lot of physical effort when using the pestle, so make sure it’s not too hefty.
4. Physical Appearance
Although a mortar and pestle might not seem like a crucial kitchen appliance, their aesthetic value should not be overlooked. Unless you want to keep it locked up in a cabinet or shop, a mortar will enhance not only your culinary skills but also the aesthetics of your home.
The aforementioned qualities can be stated to apply to each and every one of the granite mortars and pestles that made the cut. As a result, it doesn’t matter which mortar you end up purchasing; you’ll always have the correct kind for your home or business.
Best Granite Mortar And Pestle – Reviews
1. Thai Super-Size Granite Mortar And Pestle
The 9-inch diameter of this massive mortar is nearly twice as large as a standard one. With such a sizable bowl, you’ll never have to worry about cramming in too much work for the kitchen at once. Really neat, huh? Given the size of the basin, whole fresh herbs can be ground with little need for pre-chopping.
The pestle is pretty heavy, so it will help you get the work done quickly and easily. With dimensions of 9.5 x 9.5 x 7.5 inches and a weight of 30 pounds, the Thai super-size granite mortar is perfectly balanced and ready to take on any task. If you have a lot of ingredients or spices to grind all at once, this is the one to get.
2. M.V. Trading Mtp92 Stone (Granite) Mortar And Pestle
This is another work of exceptional excellence from Thailand. It is entirely hewn from a single block of granite with a Mohs hardness rating of 7+. There are more than three sizes to choose from, so you can get the perfect fit with this product.
The mortar is perfectly balanced with an outer diameter of 9.25 inches, an inner diameter of 6.50 inches, and a height of 7.25 inches, so it won’t spill over when you’re pounding or grinding. Nuts, seeds, and spices can all benefit from being toasted in this manner. Having a pestle that’s 9.25 inches tall makes it easy to use.
It can’t be broken, even with repeated beating; it doesn’t crack or chip. So now you know that the mortar and pestle you purchase will last you a lifetime. If you’re looking to upgrade the look of your kitchen, consider the m.v. trade granite mortar and pestle.
3. Chefsofi EXTRA Large 8 inch 5 Cup-Capacity Mortar And Pestle Set
The mortar and pestle by Chefsofi comes with two different pestle options. It’s crafted from raw granite, allowing the room’s innate beauty to shine through. The herbs and ingredients you put into it will be pulverised in no time, giving you the authentic taste and aroma of your spice that mere mortals and pestle can’t match.
This mortar’s granite base makes it perfect for quick work of crushing, grinding, or powdering ingredients. The unpolished surface of the work surface also makes it simple to clean and maintain.
The mortar’s interior is 500ml, which is around 2 cups, so you won’t have to worry about constantly refilling it with new ingredients as you work. The size of this container, 6 inches on a side, should prevent any spilling when pounding or grinding. With a total weight of 7.04 pounds, it is heavy for the purpose intended yet still manageable to move around if necessary.
It works wonderfully as a mortar to pulverise any substance to the desired consistency or flavour. In the highly improbable event that Chefstofi’s product does not live up to your expectations, you can get your money back. You needn’t worry, especially given the certainty with which your mind will be blown by its magnificence.
4. Cilio Granite Mortar And Pestle Set
The mortars and pestles produced by Cilio Granite are composed entirely of granite and are therefore completely organic. To get the most out of your ingredients, use a mortar and pestle with a rough inside that can yet be easily cleaned. Because of the surface’s lack of pores, you can easily scoop out any dry or liquid substances you put into the mortar.
Together, the 5.25-inch working depth and 5-inch mortar wall height greatly reduce the likelihood of leakage and wastage during the pounding or grinding process.
The pestle weighs a decent amount, making it easy to grip and use for extended periods. The mortar’s 11.02-pound weight ensures it will sit steadily on your countertop during even the hardest pestle strikes.
Depending on the recipe, you can use it to pound either fresh or dry ingredients. Other reviews have suggested that curing the surface before the first use is necessary for a satisfying experience.
5. The Swissmar MP-003 Saffron Granite Mortar And Pestle
The swissmar mortar and pestle are constructed of high-quality polished G5 granite, which features attractive black and white speckles. Its high wall, measuring around 4 inches, ensures that your materials won’t fly out of the mortar when you’re pounding or grinding them.
The mortar has been carefully crafted to provide the highest level of user comfort, even during prolonged periods of pounding and grinding. Its manageable size (6″ 6″ 4″) and weight (7.3 lb 1 kg) make it convenient to transport.
The two-tone design of the pestle makes it easy to hold and operate, no matter what you’re trying to pound or grind. It works well for crushing, grinding, and mixing herbs and spices. Because of its natural and non-porous surface, mortar is ideal for extracting oils from plants and other components without having them absorbed into the stone.
Not only is it simple to wipe down, but it also retains none of the content placed upon it. You can get away with just giving it a quick rinse or washing it with a sponge or brush if the outcome pleases your eye.
6. RSVP Authentic Mexican Molcajete
This is an authentic example of a mortar used in Mexico. The mortar and pestle are made from pure, genuine volcanic stones, so they will last a long time and withstand regular use. Herbs and spices can be ground or mixed with ease thanks to the mortar’s tri-stand, which, while being formed of the same material as the mortar, ensures optimal stability.
Its surface is just the right roughness for grinding, allowing for easy packing and scraping of components. This material is ideal for extracting oil and liquids from dry substances since it is impermeable to water. Water may be used for cleaning and maintenance because to the surface’s design.
The tejolote (pestle) is 4.5 inches long and has a grinding end that is 2.5 inches in diameter, while the molcajete measures 8.8 by 8.5 by 8.5 inches. A size that is adequate for the intended purpose. It is lightweight and simple to relocate, however special care must be used when lifting and placing it.
In addition, the new molcajete is accompanied by a pamphlet detailing the processes necessary to cure it prior to its first usage.
However, if you follow these simple instructions, you may prepare your molcajete for use.
- To clean the molcajete, simply use water and a new, dry wire brush.
- Following this, a paste made from garlic cloves, onion, or rice can be applied to the inside of the mortar using the tejolote (pestle).
- After 24 hours, remove the paste from the molcajete by rinsing it with water.
- For the sake of preserving the grit-free surface of the volcanic stone it was carved from, please refrain from using it right away.
In addition, it processes both fresh and dry ingredients with effortlessly, so you can count on getting the most out of your meal.
7. Stone (Granite) Mortar and Pestle
The granite used to create this piece was carved in Thailand where it was then produced. It works wonderfully for making Thai food or any other type of dish you can think of. It is guaranteed to not break or chip and has a high level of durability.
Each mortar is hand-hewn from a single piece of granite, making it exceptionally hard (7+ on the Mohs scale). So, if you like unique, handcrafted products (and we all should), this is the thing for you.
The design is beautiful to look at and would be a great addition to any kitchen. The mortar has a 7″ diameter, a 5″ inner bowl, and a height of 4.5″ (inches), making it convenient for storage. It shouldn’t be difficult to use or store a pestle that is 7 inches tall. Moving it around shouldn’t be too much of a hassle, too, as it only weighs 12 pounds.
A sturdy bowl to use as a mortar for pounding, grinding, or crushing hard substances. Top chefs all over the world have vouched for this product’s quality and durability, so you know you’re getting a top-notch product.
8. Cole & Mason Granite Mortar & Pestle
The exterior of the Cole and mason granite mortar and pestle is very appealing due to the charming designs, but this is not what it is known for. The granite composition is extremely hard and will last for generations. The mortar and pestle set is made entirely out of natural granite and weighs 8.98 pounds, which is quite hefty but manageable given the set’s compact size.
The mortar’s exterior is textured to make it easy to hold and transport. These characteristics also provide the mortar with the balance it needs to withstand repeated strikes from the pestle without shifting position.
Due to the granite mortar’s impermeable working surface, any oil or extracts that may have made their way inside can be easily poured out. The ease with which the working surface can be disinfected is another major benefit.
Both the mortar and pestle are compact, measuring just 6.69 by 6.3 by 6.3 inches, so you can keep them out on display in your kitchen without sacrificing storage space. You can use a Cole & Mason mill to pulverise or mash any type of ingredient, whether it’s fresh or dry.
For the best results, it is recommended that the Cole & Mason granite mortar be cured with garlic or rice by smashing it and smearing it on the inner surface and leaving it alone for a while, as was previously prescribed.
For over a century, the DKB group has been producing reliable goods, and Cole & Mason has been an integral part of that. The addition of the Cole & Mason granite mortar and pestle shines even brighter in comparison to the rest of the package.
Best Granite Mortar And Pestle – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe For Granite?
After each use, granite mortars and pestles can be cleaned with standard dish soaps like Dawn or Ivory. However, especially with darker stones, a residue will be left behind after prolonged use. Therefore, they should only be used on cases that will be washed.
Do You Need To Season A Granite Mortar And Pestle?
If you’re going to be using a granite mortar and pestle for the first time, you should “season” it first so that you don’t end up with grit in your food. Seasoning prepares the surface, makes it smooth, and gets rid of any grit in the mortar.
To season your mortar, just follow these easy steps:
Get a wire or scrub brush and wash the surface before drying it off. Soap of any kind should be avoided at this stage to prevent any lingering remnants from becoming stuck within.
Spread a sufficient amount of ground rice on it. Rub the inside of the mortar with appropriate spices like onions and garlic.
Leave it on for a while, and then brush it off.
It needs to be washed one more before it can be dried.
Be patient and let it air dry completely. By doing so, you’ll be able to use your seasoned granite mortar and pestle whenever you like.
If you follow the instructions above, you should be ready to use it for the first time and have a meal that is both delicious and well-prepared, thanks to the addition of flavours from the things you have grounded.
What Is The Difference Between A Molcajete And A Mortar And Pestle?
They both serve the same purpose and can be used interchangeably depending on the dish you’re preparing. When compared to the typical mortar most of us are used to, a molcajete has a shallower depth and a wider width.
Why Does Granite Feel Dusty?
Because of its mineral makeup and the fact that it was carved from granite, which is typically found in a block form, a granite mortar will feel dusty, especially before its first use. The roughness of a granite stone usually disappears when it has been seasoned.
Is A Granite Mortar And Pestle Safe?
Like other things, granite pestle has its advantages and disadvantages. But because of its robust and solid character, granite mortars and pestles can be used without worry. Use pressure won’t cause them to crack or give way.
Conclusion On The Best Granite Mortar And Pestle
You’ll agree with me that, based on the features you’ve read about, these are among the best mortar and pestles available, so you can feel confident in purchasing one of them provided it meets your demands. Ask away if you need clarification. Just drop a line in the comments box below.