Different mortars for different purposes in the kitchen
Different mortars for different purposes in the kitchen
A mortar is a classic tool that still has its place in modern kitchens today. It is used to crush, grind and mix ingredients – from spices and herbs to nuts and pesto. The choice of mortar depends on what you mainly want to use it for and which material and size best suit your needs.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of the most important considerations when choosing a mortar, as well as an insight into different types and brands that may inspire your next purchase.
The article presents a wide selection of mortars in various materials, sizes and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of the features that distinguish the models from one another, so you can more easily assess which type best suits your kitchen. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to provide a clear and neutral overview.
Factors to consider when buying a mortar
When choosing a mortar, it’s important to consider function, material and comfort. Here are some of the key factors you should keep in mind.
1. Material
The material has a major influence on how the mortar performs in use.
- Granite is heavy and robust, making it ideal for hard ingredients such as peppercorns and nuts.
- Marble has a smoother surface, which works well for herbs and spice blends.
- Ceramic and wood are lighter and decorative, but best suited for dry or soft ingredients.
2. Size and weight
A heavy mortar stands firmly during use but can be difficult to move. A smaller model is easier to handle but may be too small for larger quantities. Consider how much you typically want to crush at once.
3. Surface texture
A rough interior provides more friction and makes it easier to crush hard ingredients. A smooth surface is easier to clean but requires more effort to achieve the same result.
4. Care
Some materials require special care. Granite and marble should be hand washed without soap, while ceramic and stainless steel are often dishwasher safe. Wooden mortars should be oiled regularly to maintain their durability.
5. Design and aesthetics
The mortar is not only a tool but also a decorative element in the kitchen. Many choose a model that matches the style of their kitchen – rustic, modern or classic.
Products in focus
The BergHOFF Mortar and Pestle 17cm is a stoneware mortar and pestle that allows you to grind and crush spices and herbs to release their full aroma and flavour. It is suitable for everyday use in cooking as well as for serving freshly ground spices at the table.
The pestle has a wide base that ensures optimal contact with the bowl, making the work more efficient and delivering an even result. The stoneware material contributes to a robust construction that withstands repeated use.
The satin-like surface gives a stylish appearance that fits into most kitchens, making the mortar both practical and decorative.
- Stoneware material: Provides high durability and stability during use.
- Wide base of the pestle: Ensures an effective contact surface for better crushing.
- User-friendly design: Easy to handle and clean.
- Satin finish: Gives an elegant and timeless look.
- Suitable for serving: Can be used to present freshly ground spices at the table.
Pros and cons
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
Cons
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
Cons
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Specifications
- Manufacturer: BergHOFF
- Model: BH-3950033
- EAN: 5413821059860
- Item number: 3262793
- Material: Stoneware
- Diameter: 17 cm
- Surface: Satin finish
The Rösle Mortar 0.35 l is made of dark grey granite, which gives it both weight and stability during use. The material allows ingredients to be effectively crushed and mixed without slipping in the bowl.
The mortar is suitable for processing herbs, dried spices, curry pastes, and pesto. The non-slip base protects the work surface from scratches and ensures that the mortar remains stable during use.
With a capacity of 0.35 litres, it is suitable for smaller portions and everyday use. Cleaning is done by hand to preserve the surface and durability of the granite.
- Granite material: Provides weight and stability during use.
- Non-slip base: Prevents movement and protects the surface.
- Versatile use: Ideal for spices, herbs, curry pastes, and pesto.
- Compact size: 0.35-litre capacity, ideal for everyday use.
- Easy cleaning: Should be cleaned by hand to maintain material quality.
Pros and cons
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Pros and cons
Pros
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
Cons
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Pros
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
Cons
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Specifications
- Brand: Rösle
- Capacity: 0.35 litres (35 cl)
- Colour: Dark grey
- Material: Granite
- Item number: 22510
- EAN: 4004293129789
The Funktion mortar with pestle 10 cm ×15.0 cm granite is a mortar made of light grey granite. It comes with a matching pestle and is intended for crushing and grinding both dried spices and fresh herbs.
The mortar has a diameter of 15 cm at the top and 11 cm at the bottom, while the height is 10 cm. The pestle is 15 cm long, providing a good grip during use.
The granite material provides both weight and stability, ensuring the mortar stays firmly in place during use. The hard surface allows for a fine and even consistency of the processed ingredients.
Hand washing is recommended, both before first use and for subsequent cleaning, to maintain the quality and appearance of the material.
- Granite material: Provides stability and durability during use.
- Suitable for spices and herbs: Can be used for both dried and fresh ingredients.
- Practical dimensions: Diameter 15 cm (top), 11 cm (bottom), height 10 cm, pestle 15 cm.
- Classic design: Light grey granite with natural texture.
- Easy cleaning: Hand washing is recommended to preserve the surface.
Pros and cons
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
Cons
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
Cons
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Funktion
- Model: 829396
- Item number: 3156997
- EAN: 5722008293967
- Material: Light grey granite
- Diameter (top): 15 cm
- Diameter (bottom): 11 cm
- Height: 10 cm
- Pestle length: 15 cm
- Recommended cleaning: Hand wash
The Cindea mortar by Kave Home is part of the Cindea series and is made of green marble with a natural surface. It is designed to serve as a functional tool in the kitchen while also being a decorative element in the interior.
With its dimensions of 8 cm in height and 13 cm in length and width, the mortar has a compact size that makes it ideal for crushing spices, herbs, or nuts. It can also be used for serving small dishes such as salsa or dip.
The material is made of 100% natural marble, giving each mortar a unique appearance with variations in colour and structure. The solid weight of 1.6 kg ensures stability during use.
The Cindea mortar suits many interior styles – from modern and Nordic to rustic and vintage – and can serve both as a practical kitchen tool and as an aesthetic element on the kitchen countertop.
- Natural material: Made of 100% marble with a natural surface.
- Compact size: Height 8 cm, width and length 13 cm.
- Stable construction: The weight of 1.6 kg ensures a firm grip during use.
- Timeless design: Green colour that suits many interior styles.
- Versatile use: Suitable for both cooking and serving.
Pros and cons
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Pros and cons
Pros
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Pros
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Specifications
- Brand: Kave Home
- Series: Cindea
- Item code: AA7943PR19
- Item number: LAAA7943PR19
- Colour: Green
- Main colour: Green
- Style: Modern, Nordic, Rustic, Colonial, Vintage
- Season: Timeless
- Material: Marble
- Main material: Marble
- Main surface: Natural
- Made from natural materials: Yes (100%)
- Made from recycled materials: No
- Length: 13 cm
- Width: 13 cm
- Height: 8 cm
- Depth: 13 cm
- Product weight: 1.6 kg
- Dimensional tolerance: ±2 cm
- Indoor use: Yes
- Outdoor use: No
- Microwave safe: No
- Dishwasher safe: No
- Care: Hand wash recommended
- Assembly required: No
- Number of units per SKU: 2
- Use: For home use
Product descriptions
The BergHOFF Mortar and Pestle 17cm is a stoneware mortar and pestle that allows you to grind and crush spices and herbs to release their full aroma and flavour. It is suitable for everyday use in cooking as well as for serving freshly ground spices at the table.
The pestle has a wide base that ensures optimal contact with the bowl, making the work more efficient and delivering an even result. The stoneware material contributes to a robust construction that withstands repeated use.
The satin-like surface gives a stylish appearance that fits into most kitchens, making the mortar both practical and decorative.
- Stoneware material: Provides high durability and stability during use.
- Wide base of the pestle: Ensures an effective contact surface for better crushing.
- User-friendly design: Easy to handle and clean.
- Satin finish: Gives an elegant and timeless look.
- Suitable for serving: Can be used to present freshly ground spices at the table.
Pros and cons
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
Cons
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Efficient crushing thanks to the wide pestle base
- Stylish design with satin finish
- Can be used for both cooking and serving
Cons
- Stoneware can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
- May crack under strong impacts or drops
Specifications
- Manufacturer: BergHOFF
- Model: BH-3950033
- EAN: 5413821059860
- Item number: 3262793
- Material: Stoneware
- Diameter: 17 cm
- Surface: Satin finish
The Rösle Mortar 0.35 l is made of dark grey granite, which gives it both weight and stability during use. The material allows ingredients to be effectively crushed and mixed without slipping in the bowl.
The mortar is suitable for processing herbs, dried spices, curry pastes, and pesto. The non-slip base protects the work surface from scratches and ensures that the mortar remains stable during use.
With a capacity of 0.35 litres, it is suitable for smaller portions and everyday use. Cleaning is done by hand to preserve the surface and durability of the granite.
- Granite material: Provides weight and stability during use.
- Non-slip base: Prevents movement and protects the surface.
- Versatile use: Ideal for spices, herbs, curry pastes, and pesto.
- Compact size: 0.35-litre capacity, ideal for everyday use.
- Easy cleaning: Should be cleaned by hand to maintain material quality.
Pros and cons
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Pros and cons
Pros
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
Cons
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Pros
- Solid and heavy granite construction
- Non-slip base protects the table
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Classic design with practical size
Cons
- Should not be cleaned in the dishwasher
- The compact size may be too small for larger portions
Specifications
- Brand: Rösle
- Capacity: 0.35 litres (35 cl)
- Colour: Dark grey
- Material: Granite
- Item number: 22510
- EAN: 4004293129789
The Funktion mortar with pestle 10 cm ×15.0 cm granite is a mortar made of light grey granite. It comes with a matching pestle and is intended for crushing and grinding both dried spices and fresh herbs.
The mortar has a diameter of 15 cm at the top and 11 cm at the bottom, while the height is 10 cm. The pestle is 15 cm long, providing a good grip during use.
The granite material provides both weight and stability, ensuring the mortar stays firmly in place during use. The hard surface allows for a fine and even consistency of the processed ingredients.
Hand washing is recommended, both before first use and for subsequent cleaning, to maintain the quality and appearance of the material.
- Granite material: Provides stability and durability during use.
- Suitable for spices and herbs: Can be used for both dried and fresh ingredients.
- Practical dimensions: Diameter 15 cm (top), 11 cm (bottom), height 10 cm, pestle 15 cm.
- Classic design: Light grey granite with natural texture.
- Easy cleaning: Hand washing is recommended to preserve the surface.
Pros and cons
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
Cons
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stands stable during use
- Suitable for many types of spices and herbs
- Timeless design that fits most kitchens
Cons
- Can be heavy to handle due to the granite material
- Requires hand washing and is not dishwasher safe
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Funktion
- Model: 829396
- Item number: 3156997
- EAN: 5722008293967
- Material: Light grey granite
- Diameter (top): 15 cm
- Diameter (bottom): 11 cm
- Height: 10 cm
- Pestle length: 15 cm
- Recommended cleaning: Hand wash
The Cindea mortar by Kave Home is part of the Cindea series and is made of green marble with a natural surface. It is designed to serve as a functional tool in the kitchen while also being a decorative element in the interior.
With its dimensions of 8 cm in height and 13 cm in length and width, the mortar has a compact size that makes it ideal for crushing spices, herbs, or nuts. It can also be used for serving small dishes such as salsa or dip.
The material is made of 100% natural marble, giving each mortar a unique appearance with variations in colour and structure. The solid weight of 1.6 kg ensures stability during use.
The Cindea mortar suits many interior styles – from modern and Nordic to rustic and vintage – and can serve both as a practical kitchen tool and as an aesthetic element on the kitchen countertop.
- Natural material: Made of 100% marble with a natural surface.
- Compact size: Height 8 cm, width and length 13 cm.
- Stable construction: The weight of 1.6 kg ensures a firm grip during use.
- Timeless design: Green colour that suits many interior styles.
- Versatile use: Suitable for both cooking and serving.
Pros and cons
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Pros and cons
Pros
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Pros
- Made of natural marble with high durability
- Elegant and timeless design
- Suitable for both practical use and decoration
- Stable and heavy construction
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
- Marble may vary in colour and structure from product to product
- May be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Specifications
- Brand: Kave Home
- Series: Cindea
- Item code: AA7943PR19
- Item number: LAAA7943PR19
- Colour: Green
- Main colour: Green
- Style: Modern, Nordic, Rustic, Colonial, Vintage
- Season: Timeless
- Material: Marble
- Main material: Marble
- Main surface: Natural
- Made from natural materials: Yes (100%)
- Made from recycled materials: No
- Length: 13 cm
- Width: 13 cm
- Height: 8 cm
- Depth: 13 cm
- Product weight: 1.6 kg
- Dimensional tolerance: ±2 cm
- Indoor use: Yes
- Outdoor use: No
- Microwave safe: No
- Dishwasher safe: No
- Care: Hand wash recommended
- Assembly required: No
- Number of units per SKU: 2
- Use: For home use
Other products
The BergHOFF Covered mortar pestle 11cm was designed to make crushing and mixing herbs, spices, and other ingredients in a traditional way easier. Manual processing enhances flavour and aroma in a way that electric grinders rarely achieve.
The mortar is made of stoneware, providing a robust and durable surface that withstands repeated use. The included pestle is shaped to fit comfortably in the hand and allows effective control during use.
A distinctive feature of this model is the included cork lid, which can be used to cover the mortar when the contents need to be stored briefly, or to preserve the scent of freshly crushed ingredients. The satin finish gives it a stylish look that fits most kitchens.
- Stoneware material: Provides a solid and durable construction.
- Cork lid: Helps preserve aroma and flavour after use.
- Ergonomic design: The pestle is shaped for comfortable handling.
- Satin finish: Gives an elegant and modern appearance.
- Compact size: 11 cm diameter makes it ideal for smaller portions.
Pros and cons
- Durable stoneware material
- Cork lid for storage and aroma preservation
- Classic design with satin finish
- Easy to use and clean
- The compact size may limit the amount of ingredients that can be processed at one time
- Requires manual effort compared to electric grinders
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable stoneware material
- Cork lid for storage and aroma preservation
- Classic design with satin finish
- Easy to use and clean
Cons
- The compact size may limit the amount of ingredients that can be processed at one time
- Requires manual effort compared to electric grinders
Pros
- Durable stoneware material
- Cork lid for storage and aroma preservation
- Classic design with satin finish
- Easy to use and clean
Cons
- The compact size may limit the amount of ingredients that can be processed at one time
- Requires manual effort compared to electric grinders
Specifications
- Manufacturer: BergHOFF
- Model: BH-3950032
- EAN: 5413821059884
- Item number: 3262797
- Material: Stoneware with cork lid
- Diameter: 11 cm
- Finish: Satin
The Rösle mortar with a capacity of 0.35 litres is made of dark grey granite and comes with a matching pestle made of the same material. The combination of weight and texture allows for effective crushing of spices, herbs, and nuts, optimally releasing their aromas.
The mortar has a diameter of 14 cm and a height of 8 cm, offering a good balance between capacity and handling. The non-slip base protects the table surface and ensures that the mortar remains stable during use.
It is suitable for making spice blends, curry pastes, pesto, and other fresh mixtures where texture and flavour are important. Cleaning is done by hand to preserve the surface and durability of the granite.
- Granite material: Provides weight and stability during use.
- Non-slip base: Protects the surface and prevents slipping.
- Compact size: 14 × 8 cm with a capacity of 0.35 litres.
- Versatile use: Ideal for spices, herbs, pesto, and pastes.
- Hand wash recommended: Extends lifespan and maintains material quality.
Pros and cons
- Solid construction made of dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
- Must be cleaned by hand and is not dishwasher safe
- The heavy granite may feel bulky for some users
Pros and cons
Pros
- Solid construction made of dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
Cons
- Must be cleaned by hand and is not dishwasher safe
- The heavy granite may feel bulky for some users
Pros
- Solid construction made of dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
Cons
- Must be cleaned by hand and is not dishwasher safe
- The heavy granite may feel bulky for some users
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rösle
- Model: 22510
- Item number: 3165159
- EAN: 4004293129789
- Material: Dark grey granite
- Capacity: 0.35 litres
- Dimensions: 14 × 8 cm (diameter × height)
- Cleaning: Hand wash recommended
Different types of mortars
Mortars come in many shapes and materials, each suitable for different purposes in the kitchen.
1. Granite mortars
Granite mortars are heavy and durable. They are perfect for crushing hard ingredients such as peppercorns, salt and dried spices. The rough surface ensures effective results, and the mortar lasts for many years.
2. Marble mortars
Marble mortars have a smooth and elegant surface, making them ideal for herbs, garlic and pesto. They are easier to clean than granite but can be more delicate.
3. Ceramic mortars
Ceramic mortars are often lighter and available in many colours and designs. They are best suited for soft ingredients and smaller quantities but are not ideal for hard spices.
4. Wooden mortars
Wooden mortars are often used for dry ingredients and have a warm, natural appearance. However, they require more care, as they cannot tolerate water and must be oiled regularly.
5. Stainless steel mortars
These modern mortars combine durability and hygiene. They are easy to clean and dishwasher safe but can be slippery if they don’t have a rough interior.
Different brands of mortars
There are many manufacturers offering mortars in various materials and price ranges.
Jamie Oliver
The Jamie Oliver brand is known for robust granite mortars with a classic design and good weight, which keeps them stable during use. They are popular with both professionals and home cooks.
Le Creuset
Le Creuset offers colourful ceramic mortars that combine functionality and design. They fit perfectly into modern kitchens and are easy to clean.
Skeppshult
Skeppshult produces cast iron products, including mortars that are extremely durable and suitable for hard ingredients. They have a rustic appearance and a long lifespan.
HAY
HAY focuses on aesthetics and modern design. Their mortars are often made of marble or steel and serve both as a tool and as a decorative element in the kitchen.
IKEA
IKEA offers affordable mortars made from various materials that are well suited for everyday use and cover most needs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mortar used for?
A mortar is used to crush, grind and mix ingredients such as spices, herbs, nuts and garlic. It provides a more intense aroma than electric grinders, as oils and flavours are released naturally.
Which material is best for a mortar?
That depends on what you want to use it for. Granite is best for hard ingredients, while marble and ceramic are suitable for soft ingredients and herbs. Wood and steel are good all-round options.
How do you clean a mortar?
Most mortars should be hand washed with warm water. Avoid soap on porous materials such as granite and marble, as it can penetrate the surface. Always dry the mortar thoroughly after use.
Do you need to prepare a new mortar before use?
Yes, especially granite and marble mortars should be “seasoned” by grinding rice or salt in them the first time. This removes any stone residue and prepares the surface for use.
Can you use a mortar for liquid ingredients?
Yes, but pay attention to the material. Smooth surfaces such as marble and steel are best for moist mixtures like pesto or dressing, while porous materials can absorb liquid.
