Brilio.net - Mortar and pestle are traditional kitchen utensils that are often used to process various spices, one of which is chili sauce. However, behind its practicality, this equipment can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly cared for and cleaned. Bacteria hidden in the rough surface and pores of the mortar can cause food contamination, potentially causing digestive problems and stomach aches.
Regular use of mortars and pestles without thorough cleaning increases the risk of food residue accumulation that can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The porosity of the stone or wood in these tools allows bacteria to enter and multiply easily. Even though they look clean, mortars and pestles can harbor microorganisms that are invisible to the eye.
This condition requires extra attention in cleaning the equipment after each use. To avoid health risks, cleaning the mortar and pestle properly is very important. In addition, you can also sterilize the mortar and pestle every time you want to use it. No need to be confused, this Instagram user @rusfiadewi once shared a trick to sterilize the mortar and pestle to make it more hygienic.
photo: Instagram/@rusfiadewi
As reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @rusfiadewi on Sunday (11/17), the technique used is very easy. You only need to prepare hot water every time you want to use the mortar and pestle. Well, this hot water can be poured directly into the mortar and pestle that will be used to make chili sauce.
"Many people underestimate it. In fact, soaking the pestle and mortar before using it reduces the risk of stomach ache and diarrhea after eating chili sauce," said Instagram @rusfiadewi.
photo: Instagram/@rusfiadewi
Well, it doesn't take too long, just soak the mortar and pestle in hot water for a few minutes. After that, throw away the hot water. That way, the mortar and pestle can be used again to make chili sauce or grind various spices.
photo: Instagram/@rusfiadewi
Using hot water to clean the mortar and pestle is an effective method to improve the cleanliness and sterilization of these kitchen utensils. Hot water has the ability to kill most bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. High temperatures damage the protein structure and cell membranes of microorganisms, so they will die.
By cleaning the mortar and pestle using hot water, the risk of contamination from harmful bacteria can be significantly reduced. In addition, hot water helps loosen and dissolve food residue that sticks to the surface of the mortar and pestle.
Oils and fats contained in food are often difficult to remove with cold water alone, but hot water is able to dissolve these fats and residues more efficiently. This ensures that there are no food residues left behind that can become a breeding ground for bacteria.