Mortar and Pestles are such good things…
If you don’t have one – invest soon. Try the Asian supermarkets for good heavy duty ones at great prices. Buy the heaviest you can possible handle. They are superior to food processors because they grind rather than chop. This allows the food to exude all of their essential oils giving a more intense flavour. It seems like more work but it is surprisingly fast, is far more satisfying and you have better control over the result. If you have never made a hand pounded pesto do so soon – you will be amazed that the flavour difference! It really doesn’t take long at all – consider it an upper body work out or share the load around the kitchen – kids love it!
PS.. I’m often asked which is which: the mortar is the bowl and the pestle is the heavy bat-shaped stick you grind or pound with…
Hi Sam
I love the mortar and pestle – such a handy tool. I collect them – my favourite is a Balinese Ulekan (or ulek ulek) which is made from black basalt and is flat with a hook-shape pestle.
Sam W
I’m trying to find out where I can buy a Ulekan (& ulek ulek) from in Bali. I’m after the smaller size one?
Can anyone help me? I’m going back to Bali later this year and wish to bring one back with me.
I’ve just come back and used them at a cookign class that I attended – everyone just fell in love with them and wanted one but the cooking instructor couldnt tell me the name of a place to go to to buy them from.
Dear Linda,
What a shame the cooking instructor couldn’t tell you… I have forwarded a note to Sam Wight [from Food Blurb and Cooks Larder Cooking School Chef] as she may be able to help you – she knows just about everything! Sam Mackie
Dear Linda,
As suspected Sam Wight knew where to go! She suggests you try a store in Narrabeen called “Dari Dayu That Bali Shop”, 1444 Pittwater Road,
North Narrabeen, Sydney NSW 2101. Phone: +61 (02) 9970 6660.
Good Luck!