Crate & Barrel French Kitchen Marble Mortar and Pestle

Yes, it is recommended to 'season' the mortar and pestle by grinding a small amount of white rice into a fine powder, discarding it, and repeating the process until the powder remains clean. This removes any residual stone dust from the manufacturing process.

Marble is a natural, slightly porous stone, so it can absorb strong aromas over time. To minimize this, wipe it clean immediately after use and avoid using harsh soaps that could seep into the stone.

The marble construction provides significant weight, which keeps the mortar stable on your countertop during use. You shouldn't experience much sliding, but placing a damp kitchen towel underneath can provide extra grip if you are applying heavy pressure.

Hand wash the mortar and pestle with warm water and a soft brush. Avoid using a dishwasher, as the high heat and detergent can damage the stone, and ensure it is completely air-dried before storing.

Absolutely. The durable marble construction is designed to handle the force needed to crush peppercorns, nuts, and seeds. Its weight and density make it an effective tool for breaking down tough ingredients into pastes or coarse blends.