Grand Tradition Traditional Basalt Molcajete from Mexico (9 inch)
Grand Tradition Traditional Basalt Molcajete from Mexico (9 inch)
SKU: SKU: SK-NVC-389188
Prepare herbs, spices and sauces the way our ancestors did — with handmade stone tools. Members of the Comonfort Group present this traditional footed molcajete or stone mortar, crafted by hand from volcanic basalt. The pestle, called a tejolote, is used to grind or crush the foodstuffs in the mortar. The molcajete can also be used as a unique serving dish for salsa or guacamole.
The artisans recommend that the molcajete be 'cured' before the first use. To cure it, place some dried beans, corn or rice in the bowl and grind with the pestle until pulverized. Allow the pulverized grain to sit for 15 minutes. Once this has been done, the molcajete can be hand-washed and allowed to dry. This step will ensure that any stone dust remaining from the carving process does not affect the food.
- materials: Basalt
- Natural stone - some variations in color and/or pattern are to be expected
- Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
- Food safe
Hand wash only
Artisan Information
Artisan Information
Comonfort Group
Shop all Comonfort Group products
Our group came about because of a tradition in Mexico — an emblem of the gastronomy and culture of our country. The volcanic stone molcajete. In our city, this stone is transformed into an infinity of figures, the result of the imagination and the work of Mexican hands, trained over generations. Grandfathers, fathers and sons have done this for as long as anyone can remember.
"The process begins on a hill, far outside the city. This is where we choose the stone that will become one of these famous Mexican mortars. The salsas prepared in a molcajete have a special flavor and texture.
"When we have a good piece of stone in our hands, we take it to our workshops where the brute stone will begin to take shape.
"Sometimes we're miners when we take our stones from the mines. And we're sculptors as we give them shape. But these men are also blacksmiths, as we create all of our tools by ourselves.
"Each molcajete is unique, as they arise from the artisan's imagination and the skill in his hands. There are even times when a grinding bowl is almost finished and one hard blow can ruin the work of an entire day.
"Sadly, there is less and less appreciation for the molcajete and this puts its tradition in danger of dying out.
"Yet today these and other art forms made in our city compete in artisan contests at the world level and often take prizes.
"Or work is one of the true marvels found in the Mexican state of Guanajuato for the world."
Supplier Information
Supplier Information
NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.
Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.
Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.
The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.
Shipping
Shipping
United States shipping only. Expedited shipping is unavailable. Allow for 1-2 days extra processing time. This product may ship separately from other products in your order and may have longer than normal shipping timelines as it will ship directly from its country of origin.
Returns
Returns
All sales of this product are final -- we do not accept returns or issue replacements unless there is a defect with the product. Please review our Returns & Exchanges policy.