How to Grind Spices With a Mortar and Pestle

Spices have been making our food taste better for centuries. Just about as old is the mortar and pestle, a combination of a sturdy bowl (mortar) and paddle (pestle), usually carved from stone. When the pestle is rubbed into the mortar, they form the ideal tool for grinding everything from spices to drugs--one reason the duo has become iconic of pharmacies. With just a little effort, you can put this ancient device to work in your kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Mortar and pestle
• Whole spices

Instructions

1. Purchase a sturdy mortar and pestle from a kitchen supply store. They range from around $20 to more than $100, so just be sure that the model you choose is heavy and large enough to handle the amount of spices you want to grind.

2. Put several tablespoons of whole spices into the mortar. You can grind just about any spice, but good choices include peppercorns, coriander seeds and other round, dry pods.

3. Put the pestle on top of the spices and twist it slowly back and forth.

4. Press down on the pestle as you twist, adding pressure to help grind the spices. Be sure to steady the mortar with your other hand.

5. Continue crushing the whole spices, which will have a tendency to climb up the sides of the mortar. Keep knocking them to the bottom and repeating the pressing/twisting motion until the spices are ground to the desired texture.

6. Store ground spices in individual airtight containers in a cool part of your cabinet until you use them.

Tips & Warnings

• Since spices tend to stay fresher in their whole form, use the mortar and pestle to grind only small amounts at a time.

• Clean the mortar and pestle with warm water between each spice to avoid mixing flavors.