Ceramic mortar - Mortero

Decorative ceramic mortar (14 cm diameter) in classic hand-painted design including matching wooden pestle. 

 

In Spanish cuisine, the mortar (mortero) is often used to crush spices, herbs, seeds or other ingredients and release aromas. For example, a mortar can be used to grind spices for curries or marinades or to crush fresh herbs for sauces. A mortar can also be used to make pestos, dips and sauces, such as the typical alioli, the popular Spanish garlic dip. Using a mortar often requires a little more time and effort compared to modern kitchen appliances such as blenders or choppers, but it can produce a more intense flavour and texture, especially when dealing with small quantities of ingredients. Spanish ceramics are also a popular gift as they combine handmade art with practicality. They can bring a special memory of Spain or Mediterranean flair to any household.