Molcajete

A molcajete is a Mexican pestle and mortar carved out of heavy basalt rock. In pre-Hispanic cultures a molcajete was used along with its accompanying tejolote (pestle) for grinding various herbs and spices into pastes.

Try using a molcajete to prepare salsas, mole and guacamole - its hard-wearing, textured balsalt surface provides the perfect basin for preparing a variety of authentic Mexican dishes. When you first receive the molcajete it needs to be 'broken in' so that any loose fragments of rock don't enter the food you are preparing. This is best done by grinding hard, white rice until the white rice flour no longer contains any visible grey flecks.

These molcajetes have a strong, three-legged design and make a stunning, bold utensil in any kitchen. It can also be used as a serving dish at the table for presenting authentic guacamole and chilli pastes.

Dimensions: 18cm external diameter, 15cm internal diameter, 12cm high, tejolote measures 10cm long x 6cm diameter.