A simple pestle and mortar are one of the oldest kitchen utensils.

Watch our Woodworking Wisdom Demo and join Colwin Way, as he takes you through from start to finish how to make your very own. He offers helpful tips and techniques throughout.

What are a Pestle and Mortar?

These are traditional kitchen tools for a host of cooking tasks. From cracking peppercorn to bruising herbs, they are an essential kitchen aid. But, which is which? The mortar part is the bowl.

Made from hardwoods, ceramics, or a hard stone like granite. You have to remember, a lot of force goes into grinding up all those spices! The pestle is the heavy blunt part, made from the same material as the mortar. Used to work the herbs and spices into a powder or paste.

What materials to use

Colwin uses British Elm for both the pestle and the mortar. Although, other hardwoods would be just as suitable. Remember to always use a food safe oil to finish.

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