How to Care for Granite Mortar & Pestle

Granite mortar and pestles have been used by generations in Thailand and are popular throughout the world. The tough stone utensil is used to make curry pastes and to grind produce and spices. Granite is a strong stone that is ideal for heavy-duty grinding in the kitchen. The fine flavors produced from foods ground in a granite mortar and pestle are far superior to the flavors of foods ground in a metal-bladed blender. Unlike metal, which transfers a metallic flavor to foods, granite keeps the flavor of foods pure. A properly cleaned granite mortar and pestle will provide years of service in the household kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Dishrag
• Unscented dish soap
• Abrasive dish sponge
• Dry cloth

Instructions

1. Rinse the mortar and pestle in water immediately after use to minimize staining. Granite is especially prone to staining when exposed to acidic and oily foods.

2. Wash the mortar in warm water, using a clean dishrag and mild dish soap. Unscented dish soap is best, because scented soaps can leave a perfume residue on the mortar and pestle that could transfer to food. Use an abrasive dish sponge to remove stuck-on food.

3. Rinse the mortar and pestle thoroughly in warm water to remove soap residue.

4. Dry the mortar and pestle with a clean cloth to prevent water stains from forming on the granite.

Tips & Warnings

• Some staining on a granite and mortar pestle is inevitable, but it does not affect the performance of the utensil.