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Grinders, mortars and mincers
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| These are kitchen implements, which have always involved a high degree of mechanisation. Until a short while ago, they represented the height of sophistication in the kitchen. The mortar is perhaps the last survivor of a time, when brute strength was valued as much as speed and skill. At a time when genuine flavours and taking pleasure in cooking are being rediscovered, these implements allow spices and aromatic herbs to be prepared in such a way that all their aroma is released. |
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These are available in metal and marble or ceramic. Metal mortars are usually bucket-shaped, whereas the classic concave bowl is more typical of marble mortars. The inner surface of these is grained or roughened to stop ingredients spilling out when the (traditionally wooden) pestle is used. When ingredients, such as fresh spices, are ground in the mortar, they give off a peerless aroma.
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SPICE, SALT AND PEPPER GRINDERS |
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The hand-turned version is now used exclusively for salt, pepper and other spices. In most homes, it has been supplanted by mini electrical appliances (especially for coffee). This is because the amount of spices needed to prepare a dish is usually very small, except in those cases when a specific mixture is needed for particular recipes. Spices packaged in corns or whole have been very successful in the shops. The top incorporates a mechanism, which allows you to grind just as much spice as you want, when you want it. Small column grinders (wooden or transparent plastic) have a great visual impact and, just like pepper grinders, let you have the ground product fresh every time.
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There was a time when mincers with a cast iron handle were to be seen in every kitchen, where meat was used in the preparation of sausages and mince. Modern versions are electric or even robotic and with the correct application (pierced discs) do a perfect job every time.
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