Anyone use a pestle and mortar?

[daylen]

I am wondering if it is reasonable to use a pestle and mortar instead of a food processor. At first glance, the simplicity and reliability appeal to me (plus they are kinda cool and make you look like a bad ass ).

Anyone?

[Dave]

I use a mortar and pestle to grind saffron and cardamom seeds. But that's it O.O.

[jacob]

Yeah, once upon a time. It's mostly for masochists. A high speed blender will do in 10 seconds what takes hours with a mortar and pestle.

[jennypenny]

I'm currently using an old Tupperware Quick Chef that someone gave me since they didn't use it. It's not quite as primitive, but still hand-powered.

@Dave--Saffron?! (I'm only kidding. I can't say anything since I use mace as a substitute, which is still pricey.)

[daylen]

I imagine they would be convenient for small quantities, such as a serving of pepper or some guacamole.

[llorona]

A few years ago, I thought I needed one.

With a couple exceptions, it has sat at the back of the cupboard.

[Riggerjack]

Yup. For grinding my dog's meds, to mix with her food. Before that, crushing pepper seeds. I can't think of a way to replace a food processor with one. Try a knife. It'll actually cut stuff, rather than mash it, and a knife will look much more badass.

[Did]

Yes it is a wonderful thing if you cook for pleasure.

Shame Jacob shame.

It is essential for correct Thai cooking.

[vexed87]

I bought a ceramic one on sale, it looks cool on my shelf. Used it twice.

[Dave]

I'm currently using an old Tupperware Quick Chef that someone gave me since they didn't use it. It's not quite as primitive, but still hand-powered.

@Dave--Saffron?! (I'm only kidding. I can't say anything since I use mace as a substitute, which is still pricey.)

Haha, yep! We ask for spices for Christmas, and DW's sister likes to buy us a small container of saffron.

[enigmaT120]

Once a lady at work, who was from Iran (Persia to her) asked if she could use the scale in my lab. I said sure, as I liked her anyway. She was weighing out saffron somebody had sent her. She even gave me some. But I felt sort of like if she was weighing illegal drugs or something, as that stuff was completely out of my experience except I knew it was expensive.