Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Shari Mason
Marble is a beautiful and long-lasting material, which makes it a great choice for kitchenware. However, it also requires special care to keep it looking and functioning like new.
This guide will cover all the steps you need to take to clean your marble mortar and pestle properly.
We’ll discuss the specific cleaning products you should use and the steps and techniques you should follow to ensure you get your marble mortar and pestle looking brand new. Let’s get started.
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Guide On How To Clean A Marble Mortar & Pestle
- Begin by removing any herbs or spices from the mortar and pestle.
- Rinse the mortar and pestle with warm water to remove any lingering particles.
- Create a paste by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of water.
- Dip a damp cloth into the paste and scrub the inside and outside of the mortar and pestle.
- Rinse the mortar and pestle with warm water to remove any remaining baking soda paste.
- Dry the mortar and pestle completely with a clean cloth.
- Rub a small amount of food-grade mineral oil into the mortar and pestle to help preserve the stone and keep it looking its best.
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Does Marble Mortar & Pestle Need To Be Seasoned?
Yes, a new mortar & pestle needs to be seasoned. Seasoning helps to fill any small cracks, pores, or fissures in the stone and creates a protective coating that makes it easier to grind and crush ingredients.
Additionally, seasoning helps prevent ingredients from sticking, doing cleaning and maintaining the mortar and pestle easier.
Seasoning is simple and involves rubbing a small amount of oil into the surface of the mortar and pestle and then wiping off any excess.
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What Happens If You Don’t Season It?
If you don’t season your mortar and pestle, it can become unevenly rough, making it difficult to grind spices and herbs.
Unseasoned mortar and pestle can also cause flavor contamination between different ingredients, as the rough surface can trap remnants of past ingredients.
“The marble not yet carved can hold the form of every thought the greatest artist has.”
– Michelangelo, Italian Sculptor
Additionally, it can be difficult to clean a mortar and pestle that hasn’t been seasoned, as the rough surface can trap dirt and grime.
To maintain the quality of your mortar and pestle, it’s important to season it regularly.
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How To Clean A New Mortar & Pestle
Begin by washing it with dish soap and hot water. Use a stiff brush to scrub the inside and outside, especially crevices and grooves.
Rinse the mortar and pestle [1] thoroughly and dry it with a towel. To finish, heat the mortar and pestle in the oven at a low temperature for 10 minutes to kill bacteria.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool before using.
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What Should You Not Use On Marble Mortar & Pestle?
It is important to avoid using abrasive material or hard objects on a marble mortar and pestle.
This includes metal utensils, such as spoons, knives, or forks, as these can easily scratch and damage the surface of the marble.
Additionally, it is important to avoid using acidic ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, or tomatoes, as these can cause discoloration and etching on the surface of the mortar and pestle.
Read: How To Get Burnt Sugar Off Stove Top?
Tips On How To Care For Your Marble Mortar & Pestle
- Clean your marble mortar and pestle regularly with a damp cloth to remove any food residue.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any stubborn food residue.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as these can cause scratches and damage to the marble. Rinse with warm water after each use and dry thoroughly.
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- Store your mortar and pestle in a cool, dry place.
- To prevent staining, use food-grade mineral oil to coat the exterior of the mortar and pestle.
- If your mortar and pestle become stained, try using lemon juice and baking soda paste to remove the stain.
- If your mortar and pestle become cracked, it’s best to replace them with a new one.
Read: How To Clean Knife After Cutting Raw Chicken?
FAQs
How do you clean a granite mortar & pestle?
Start by brushing off the large food particles from the mortar and pestle. Fill the mortar with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap [2].
Scrub the inside of the mortar and pestle with a soft brush, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
Can you put oil in a marble mortar & pestle?
Yes, you can put oil in a mortar and pestle. Oil can be used to help with grinding ingredients into a paste.
Can a marble mortar & pestle break?
Yes, a marble mortar and pestle can break if it is dropped or exposed to too much force.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a marble mortar and pestle is an easy process that requires minimal effort but yields great results.
With the proper cleaning materials and techniques, keeping this kitchen staple clean and in excellent condition for years to come is easy.
Taking the time to clean and maintain your mortar and pestle properly will ensure that it remains a trusted tool for grinding and mashing ingredients for years to come.
References:
- https://www.allrecipes.com/cook/7543327/collection/bookmarks_f76a014b-5007-bc46-263f-23693e85ab1d
- https://www.thespruce.com/uses-for-dish-soap-1900397
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