Different mortars gathered in one overview
Different mortars gathered in one overview
A mortar is a classic tool that still has its place in modern kitchens. It is used to crush, grind and mix spices, herbs and nuts, and can add a unique flavour and texture to your dishes. Whether you are making pesto, curry paste or simply want to release the aroma of fresh spices, the right mortar can make a big difference.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of the different types of mortars, what to consider before buying, and which materials and brands are worth knowing about.
The article presents a selection of mortars in different materials, sizes and price ranges. The aim is to provide a broad overview of the most common types and their characteristics, so you can more easily find a model that suits your needs. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide an informative and comparable overview.
Factors to consider when buying a mortar
When choosing a mortar, it’s about functionality, material and comfort. Here are some of the most important things to consider.
1. Material
The material has a major impact on how the mortar performs in use. Granite and marble are heavy and stable, making them ideal for crushing hard ingredients such as peppercorns and nuts. Ceramic mortars are lighter and good for herbs and soft ingredients, while wooden mortars are suitable for dry spices but require more maintenance.
2. Size and weight
A heavy mortar stands firmly when you work, but can be heavy to move. Smaller models are easy to handle and suitable for quick tasks, while larger mortars provide space to work with larger quantities at once.
3. Surface texture
A rough surface makes it easier to crush ingredients effectively, while a smooth surface is better for mixing and stirring. Consider what you primarily want to use the mortar for when choosing.
4. Maintenance
Some materials require more care than others. Granite and marble should not be washed with soap, as it can penetrate the stone, while ceramic and stainless steel mortars are easier to clean. Wooden mortars should be oiled regularly to preserve the surface.
5. Price and design
The price depends on material and size. Simple ceramic models can be found cheaply, while handmade mortars in natural stone often cost more. The design can also play a role if the mortar is to be displayed as part of the kitchen’s look.
Products in focus
BergHOFF Mortar pestle 17cm is a mortar and pestle made of stoneware, which makes it possible to grind and crush spices and herbs to release their full aroma and flavour. It is suitable for both everyday cooking and for presenting 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 providing 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 on 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
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
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 crushed and mixed effectively without slipping around in the bowl.
The mortar is suitable for processing herbs, dried spices, curry pastes, and pesto. The non-slip underside protects the tabletop from scratches and ensures that the mortar stays in place during use.
With a capacity of 0.35 litres, it is suitable for smaller portions and everyday cooking. Cleaning should be done by hand to preserve the granite’s surface and durability.
- Granite material: Provides weight and stability during use.
- Non-slip base: Prevents movement and protects the surface.
- Suitable for many purposes: Ideal for spices, herbs, curry pastes, and pesto.
- Compact size: 0.35-litre capacity suitable for daily use.
- Easy cleaning: Should be cleaned by hand to maintain the material’s 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
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 measures 15 cm in length, providing a good grip during use.
The granite material provides both weight and stability, ensuring the mortar stays in place during use. The hard surface makes it possible to achieve a fine and even consistency in the ingredients being processed.
Hand washing is recommended, both before first use and for subsequent cleaning, to preserve 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
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
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 from Kave Home is part of the Cindea series and is made of green marble with a natural finish. It is designed to function as a practical tool in the kitchen while adding a decorative element to the interior.
With its dimensions of 8 cm in height and 13 cm in both length and width, the mortar has a compact size that makes it suitable for crushing spices, herbs, or nuts. It can also be used for serving small dishes such as salsa or dip.
The material consists of 100% natural marble, giving each mortar a unique appearance with variations in colour and structure. The solid weight of 1.6 kg contributes to stability during use.
The Cindea mortar fits into many interior styles – from modern and Nordic to rustic and vintage – and can function both as a practical kitchen tool and as an aesthetic element on the kitchen counter.
- Natural material: Made of 100% marble with a natural finish.
- Compact size: Height 8 cm, width and length 13 cm.
- Stable construction: The weight of 1.6 kg provides a solid 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
- Can 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
- Can 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
- Can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Specifications
- Brand: Kave Home
- Series: Cindea
- Item code: AA7943PR19
- Item no.: LAAA7943PR19
- Colour: Green
- Main colour: Green
- Style: Modern, Nordic, Rustic, Colonial, Vintage
- Season: Timeless
- Material: Marble
- Main material: Marble
- Main finish: Natural
- Made of natural materials: Yes (100%)
- Made of recycled materials: No
- Length: 13 cm
- Width: 13 cm
- Height: 8 cm
- Depth: 13 cm
- Product weight: 1.6 kg
- Measurement 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
Product descriptions
BergHOFF Mortar pestle 17cm is a mortar and pestle made of stoneware, which makes it possible to grind and crush spices and herbs to release their full aroma and flavour. It is suitable for both everyday cooking and for presenting 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 providing 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 on 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
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
Pros
- Robust stoneware construction
- Effective 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 hard impacts or if dropped
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 crushed and mixed effectively without slipping around in the bowl.
The mortar is suitable for processing herbs, dried spices, curry pastes, and pesto. The non-slip underside protects the tabletop from scratches and ensures that the mortar stays in place during use.
With a capacity of 0.35 litres, it is suitable for smaller portions and everyday cooking. Cleaning should be done by hand to preserve the granite’s surface and durability.
- Granite material: Provides weight and stability during use.
- Non-slip base: Prevents movement and protects the surface.
- Suitable for many purposes: Ideal for spices, herbs, curry pastes, and pesto.
- Compact size: 0.35-litre capacity suitable for daily use.
- Easy cleaning: Should be cleaned by hand to maintain the material’s 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
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 measures 15 cm in length, providing a good grip during use.
The granite material provides both weight and stability, ensuring the mortar stays in place during use. The hard surface makes it possible to achieve a fine and even consistency in the ingredients being processed.
Hand washing is recommended, both before first use and for subsequent cleaning, to preserve 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
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
Pros
- Robust granite construction
- Stays 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 cannot be machine washed
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 from Kave Home is part of the Cindea series and is made of green marble with a natural finish. It is designed to function as a practical tool in the kitchen while adding a decorative element to the interior.
With its dimensions of 8 cm in height and 13 cm in both length and width, the mortar has a compact size that makes it suitable for crushing spices, herbs, or nuts. It can also be used for serving small dishes such as salsa or dip.
The material consists of 100% natural marble, giving each mortar a unique appearance with variations in colour and structure. The solid weight of 1.6 kg contributes to stability during use.
The Cindea mortar fits into many interior styles – from modern and Nordic to rustic and vintage – and can function both as a practical kitchen tool and as an aesthetic element on the kitchen counter.
- Natural material: Made of 100% marble with a natural finish.
- Compact size: Height 8 cm, width and length 13 cm.
- Stable construction: The weight of 1.6 kg provides a solid 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
- Can 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
- Can 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
- Can be heavy compared to mortars made of lighter materials
Specifications
- Brand: Kave Home
- Series: Cindea
- Item code: AA7943PR19
- Item no.: LAAA7943PR19
- Colour: Green
- Main colour: Green
- Style: Modern, Nordic, Rustic, Colonial, Vintage
- Season: Timeless
- Material: Marble
- Main material: Marble
- Main finish: Natural
- Made of natural materials: Yes (100%)
- Made of recycled materials: No
- Length: 13 cm
- Width: 13 cm
- Height: 8 cm
- Depth: 13 cm
- Product weight: 1.6 kg
- Measurement 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
Other products
The BergHOFF Covered mortar pestle 11cm is designed to make it easy to crush and mix herbs, spices, and other ingredients in a traditional way. The manual processing enhances flavour and aroma in a way that electric grinders rarely can match.
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 provides 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-like finish gives a stylish look that fits into 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 look.
- Compact size: 11 cm diameter makes it suitable 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 in the same material. The combination of weight and texture makes it possible to crush spices, herbs, and nuts effectively, releasing aromas optimally.
The mortar has a diameter of 14 cm and a height of 8 cm, providing a good balance between capacity and manageability. The non-slip base protects the tabletop 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 should be done by hand to preserve the granite’s surface and durability.
- 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.
- Suitable for many purposes: Ideal for spices, herbs, pesto, and pastes.
- Hand wash recommended: Extends lifespan and preserves material quality.
Pros and cons
- Solid construction in dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to the non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
- Must be cleaned by hand and not in the dishwasher
- The heavy granite may feel bulky for some users
Pros and cons
Pros
- Solid construction in dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to the non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
Cons
- Must be cleaned by hand and not in the dishwasher
- The heavy granite may feel bulky for some users
Pros
- Solid construction in dark granite
- Stands stable thanks to the non-slip base
- Suitable for many types of ingredients
- Compact and practical size for kitchen use
Cons
- Must be cleaned by hand and not in the dishwasher
- 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 varieties, and the choice depends on what you most often use it for and what look you prefer in your kitchen.
1. Granite mortar
The granite mortar is a classic, known for its weight and durability. The rough interior makes it easy to crush even hard ingredients, and it is ideal for everything from spices to pesto. However, it requires some maintenance and should be rinsed and dried thoroughly after use.
2. Marble mortar
Marble gives an elegant look and a smoother surface, which is well suited for herbs and soft ingredients. It is easy to clean but can be more sensitive to knocks and temperature changes.
3. Ceramic mortar
Ceramic mortars are light and often glazed, making them easy to clean. They are best for dry spices and small quantities but can be too fragile for hard ingredients such as peppercorns.
4. Wooden mortar
The wooden mortar has a rustic look and is pleasant to work with. It is best for dry ingredients and should not be exposed to water for long periods. Regular oiling extends its lifespan.
5. Stainless steel mortar
A modern variant that combines durability and hygiene. The smooth surface makes it easy to clean, and it is suitable for both dry and moist ingredients. However, it can be a bit slippery in use if it doesn’t have a rubber base.
Different brands of mortars
There are many manufacturers offering mortars in different materials and designs. Here are some of the most well-known.
Jamie Oliver
The Jamie Oliver brand offers robust granite mortars designed for everyday use in the kitchen. They combine functionality with a rustic look and come in several sizes.
IKEA
IKEA offers affordable mortars in both granite and ceramic. They have a simple design and are well suited for everyday use, especially for those who want a functional tool without paying for premium materials.
Le Creuset
Le Creuset is known for its colourful and durable products, and their ceramic mortars are no exception. They are glazed, easy to clean and available in many colours that match the brand’s other kitchen range.
Skeppshult
Skeppshult produces cast iron mortars, which have a special robustness and weight. They are ideal for those who want a tool that will last for many years and withstand intensive use.
Hario
Hario, known for its coffee products, also offers mortars in ceramic and glass. They are light and elegant and well suited for finer work with herbs and spices.
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 seeds. It releases aromas and oils that provide a more intense flavour than using electric grinders.
How do you clean a mortar?
Clean the mortar immediately after use. Rinse it in warm water and dry it thoroughly. Avoid soap on stone and wooden mortars, as it can affect the taste and material. You can use a little rice to clean the surface of any residue.
Which material is best?
It depends on what you use it for. Granite is best for hard ingredients, ceramic for herbs and wood for dry spices. If you want a versatile option, granite is a safe choice.
Should you prepare a new mortar?
Yes, especially stone mortars should be “broken in” before first use. Crush some rice in the mortar to remove any stone residue and dust, then rinse thoroughly.
How long does a mortar last?
A mortar made of granite, marble or cast iron can last for many years if properly cared for. Wooden and ceramic models have a shorter lifespan but can still last a long time with proper maintenance.
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