Spices are among the most important foundations of cooking. Whether you love grinding together a vibrant Moroccan spice rub to warming Garam Masala mixes, and more subtle French mixes, freshly ground spices add depth and complexity that pre-ground versions often lack. While store-bought spices are undeniably convenient, they rarely deliver the same punch of flavour.
Which begs the question: which tool does the job best – a modern spice grinder or a traditional mortar and pestle?
Spice grinders
A modern solution built for speed and convenience, spice grinders are a wonderful tool to have in the kitchen. Available in either electric or manual, spice grinders make quick work of turning whole spices into powders. With new and constantly improving designs, spice grinders don’t take up loads of storage or counter space, are easy to clean (with some being dishwasher friendly – yay), and don’t limit you to grinding dry spices – you’re able to grind spices and aromatics together to create pastes for curries, stews, and soups.
While versatile, spice grinders also have their drawbacks. One major drawback that many homecooks and chefs highlight is the control, or lack thereof, they have over the consistency of whatever they’re grinding. Some grinders come with varying degrees of coarseness or fineness, but there are no options for the in-betweens.
Most electric grinders either have cords or use batteries. Cords limit you to staying close to a power source in the kitchen, while batteries don’t last very long and incur small but regular costs. Manual spice grinders are great for countries with power issues (loadshedding, here’s to you), but take away the convenience and speed that electric spice grinders provide.
Moreover, spice grinders can either be cheap or ultra-expensive. Cheaper options are great for those of us who have limited budgets, but their long-term performance is questionable (and may lead to multiple purchases, which throws budgets out of whack anyways). Ultra-expensive grinders are more reliable, but for the most part, unattainable or not worth it, if you’re only grinding spices once a week, or in small batches.
Mortar and pestle
Many hard-core chefs will argue for this awesome ancient tool. Sure, they might be heavy and bulky, taking up storage or counter space, and take some effort to clean, but these drawbacks are outweighed by their advantages. Mortar and pestles last a lifetime – they don’t need electricity or batteries to function, just some muscle. Moreover, their versatility remains unmatched. Mortar and pestles can do way more than grind whole spices. They can make pastes, dips, and sauces, like Thai Green Curry paste, guacamole, and salad dressings.
The best part? Mortars and pestles are totally customisable. You are totally in control of the consistency – you control the speed, pressure and time you grind. This means the outcome of whatever you make has a unique consistency, which adds a fun and creative element to mortars and pestles that no other electric tool can produce.
Which is better?
This really comes down to personal preference. Ultimately, the better tool depends on your cooking style, budget and how much time you’re willing to invest.
If you’re after convenience, low effort, and without time, then an electric spice grinder is a solid choice. There are many cool designs that offer versatility and ease of use on the market.
If you’re after something affordable and power-free, then opt for a manual spice grinder.
If, however, you’re after precision, texture control and versatility, get yourself a mortar and pestle.
