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The Mortar and Pestle
A mortar and pestle is a tool that has been used for centuries to grind, crush and mix substances in food preparation. Typically these substances include herbs, seeds, spices and other foods that need to be pulverized or made into a paste. The pestle is a bat shaped device usually made of a heavy material such as wood, stone, marble or clay. The mortar is a bowl shaped container constructed from similar materials. These two objects combine to provide the grinding and crushing action that provides the utilitarian function of a mortar and pestle. |
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History of the
Mortar and Pestle |
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There are many different sizes
and shapes of both mortars and pestles but the overall function is
the same. There are a variety of names that mortar and pestles are
referred to as; Suribachi in Japan, Lesungs in Malay and Molcajete
in Mexico. The Molcajete of Mexico was discovered as early as 6,000
years ago. Many countries have their own style of mortars and
pestles made out of indigenous products which are used in
preparation of regional dishes. |
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HIMALAYAN SALT
CHEF M&P |
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Imagine a mortar and pestle
made of salt! Himalayan Salt Chef™ was created based on the
realization of the unlimited possibilities of Himalayan Pink salts’
unique qualities. Because of its one of a kind structure, beauty and
elemental components we were able to design the mortar & pestle
that allow the novice cook and professional chef alike to explore
the unlimited uses of this ancient kitchen tool. We use only the
highest quality salt available from our own factory in Pakistan,
where we are able to select the proper grade of salt and hand craft
our current product line of mortar & pestles. Typically smooth
and non-porous materials are used for mortars and pestles so that
food will not be trapped or absorbed. Himalayan Salt Chef™ has
produced a mortar and pestle made entirely out of Himalayan sea
salt. Because of its unique qualities, the pink salt makes a
perfect material for producing a mortar and pestle. Himalayan salt
is extremely hard and naturally non-porous with anti microbial
qualities to prevent any bacteria from forming. Himalayan salt also
has other characteristics that make the Himalayan Salt Chef™ mortar
and pestle one of a kind. Because the mortar and pestle is made
entirely of salt it allows the spices and herbs that are being
ground to pick up the distinctive mineral rich
flavor. |
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USING your Himalayan
Salt Chef M&P |
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The mortar and pestle is the perfect tool in creating your own unique spice blends. We recommend using whole spices like peppercorns, cumin seeds, allspice, bay leaves, etc. This allows you to have the ability of creating a specific texture and purity unlike processed spices. When grinding spices, you may need to add some sort of abrasive such as Himalayan salt or black peppercorns. The abrasive ingredients allow the pestle to create friction with the mortar to create a grinding effect. Start off by gently mashing the spices to break them up into smaller pieces. Next, you want to work the pestle in a circular motion against the side of the mortar until the spice(s) have reached the desired coarseness. Make sure that you measure each ingredient to ensure the correct ratio before placing them into the mortar. When making a larger batch for future use, try using our HSC Salt Caddy to prevent moisture absorption. Be aware that when using fresh herbs or other ingredients that may have a higher moisture content it may cause the ingredients to absorb the salt from the M & P. This will result in a higher salt flavor and adjusting the seasoning may be required. |
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CARING for your Himalayan Salt Chef M&P
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There are some simple suggestions to follow when it comes to caring for your mortar and pestle. In most applications such as grinding nuts, herbs, salt, peppercorns or any other dried ingredients, you will simply just need to wipe out the mortar with a dry towel. If needed, you can simply run warm water and gently scrub the mortar and pestle with a sponge or scour pad (do not use soap) and then dry with a cotton or terrycloth towel. Make sure the mortar and pestle is completely dry before the next use. Some spices and herbs are stronger in aroma and may leave a slight scent on the mortar and pestle. In this situation you can either grind salt in the mortar to help absorb the residual scent or you can use lemon juice which will help to neutralize it.
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Finally, remember that the
mortar and pestle is made entirely out of salt and requires a
certain degree of care to ensure many years of use. The mortar and
pestle is susceptible to cracking or breaking if dropped or abused
just like comparable ones made of marble or granite and must be
handled in a matter to ensure its integrity. |
| All HTML & IMAGES COPYRIGHT 2004-2008.PATENT PENDING FOR USA/CANADA FOR HSC GETA/MORTOR & PESTLE/CADDY/ HIMALAYAN SALT FOOD WARMER. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NATURE'S ARTIFACTS INC |
