Mortar and Pestle

Purists would insist that this is the only way to grind spices, and I would have to agree. The pestle, a round-headed hammer that fits the shape of the mortar, does the grinding; the action is not one of pounding but rather a rotary movement that gradually reduces the spices to a powder. When buying a mortar and pestle, look for a large one, preferably made of stone. It’s a good idea to place a folded damp cloth under the mortar for stability.