is there a downside to using a wood mortar and pestle?
I bought a wooden (uhh, stained bamboo?) mortar and pestle today at an asian supermarket. I liked it because it looked nice and it was pretty large, especially for the price. I was also thinking that the larger size would help with peppercorns not flying out of it -- and landing ... somewhere... wait where did that go anyway?
I have to wonder though: are there any downsides to an MP set made of wood?
Best Answer
There are at least three potential downsides:
- wood is quite light, so you will not get the benefit of added weight of the pestle for crushing;
- many wooden mortars have a smooth texture, which will not aid in the grinding as much as, e.g., a coarse ceramic mortar; and
- wood is porous—increasingly so as it dries over time—so it may have the tendency to pick up the flavors of its contents.
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Quick Answer about "is there a downside to using a wood mortar and pestle?"
It is going to be difficult to clean, and that wood stain might come out into the food - whatever the stain is. It might not even be intended for food use - perhaps you should have asked when you bought it.Is wood mortar and pestle good?
A wooden mortar and pestle are best when used for specific ingredients. When looking to grind up a flavorful spice mix, a wooden mortar and pestle might just be your best friend. They tend to run slightly smaller than their relatives, making them a perfect hand-held spice grinder.Does a wooden mortar and pestle need to be seasoned?
Many of these materials require no more than a quick wash before they're used. These include sets made of brass, wood, ceramics or even a marble mortar with a polished interior surface. Those with rough stone surfaces, however, need to be "cured" or "seasoned" before using them with food.What is the best material for a pestle and mortar?
For general use, the best option would be to get one made from a solid stone material like granite or marble. These stone mortars and pestles will use their heavy weight to break down the ingredients and they will also be able to withstand years of pounding and grinding without needing to ever replace it.Can you wash a wood mortar and pestle?
Cleaning a wooden mortar and pestle setRinse both pieces in warm water. Using a diluted dish liquid and warm water solution, wipe the mortar and pestle with the soft side of a sponge. Make sure all debris is wiped away before rinsing. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and allow to dry before use.Jamie Oliver talks you through using a pestle and mortar
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Answer 2
I think you might find that such a pestle and mortar is only used for crushing herbs that are frequently used (every day) in asian cookery, like cilantro or Kaffir lime leaves. It is going to be difficult to clean, and that wood stain might come out into the food - whatever the stain is.
It might not even be intended for food use - perhaps you should have asked when you bought it.
Answer 3
I have seen these large wooden mortar and pestles in Thailand. They use it for all sorts of som tams (spicy salads). The most recognized and popular one being Thai papaya salad. Its made from unripened shredded papaya and is very delicious. It's not hard to make and you can google recipes easily.
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