Mortar & Pelile

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 job of grinding; the action is not one of pounding, but rather a rotary movement within the mortar 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 damp cloth underneath for stability.