The 10 Best Mortar And Pestle For Grinding Spices of 2025 for Your Kitchen

For grinding herbs, a ceramic mortar and pestle is often considered the best choice. Ceramic has a smooth surface that is gentle on delicate herbs, allowing you to grind them finely without bruising or tearing. It's also non-reactive, meaning it won't absorb flavors or odors from the herbs, preserving their freshness and aroma.

Can you grind spices in a mortar and pestle?

Yes, you can grind spices effectively in a mortar and pestle. The choice of material and texture of the mortar and pestle will influence how well it grinds spices. Granite and marble mortars are excellent for grinding spices due to their rough surfaces, which create friction and break down spices into fine powders. Other materials like ceramic and porcelain can also be used for grinding spices, though they may require a bit more effort than rougher surfaces.

Which mortar and pestle material is the best?

The best material for a mortar and pestle depends on what you'll be using it for:

• Granite: Best for grinding tough spices and herbs due to its rough texture.
• Marble: Suitable for general grinding tasks and presentation due to its smooth surface.
• Ceramic: Ideal for grinding softer ingredients like herbs, spices, and making pastes.
• Porcelain: Smooth and non-porous, easy to clean, suitable for general kitchen use including grinding spices.
• Agate: Extremely hard and durable, used for very hard materials and specialized grinding tasks requiring precision.

Choose a material based on your specific culinary needs and preferences.

Which is better, polished or unpolished mortar and pestle?

For most culinary tasks, an unpolished mortar and pestle is better. The rough texture of an unpolished surface provides more friction, making it easier to grind tough ingredients like spices and herbs into fine powders or pastes. Polished mortar and pestles, while easier to clean and visually appealing, may not offer as much grinding efficiency due to their smooth surfaces.

What do chefs use to grind spices?

Chefs often use granite or marble mortar and pestles for grinding spices. These materials are durable and have a rough surface that efficiently breaks down spices into fine powders. Some chefs may also use ceramic or porcelain mortar and pestles for softer spices or herbs that require a gentler touch. The choice often depends on the specific culinary traditions and personal preferences of the chef.

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