foto: Instagram/@qualitygreens.id
Brilio.net - Mortar and pestle are the most vulnerable kitchen tools to dirt. How could it not be, after use, the stains can stick firmly to the surface of the mortar, especially if it is made of stone or clay. These stains can affect the aroma and taste of the spices that are processed later.
The problem of stains on the mortar is caused by spices that have strong colors and oils, such as turmeric, chili, or coriander. When these spices are ground, the pigments and oils seep into the pores of the mortar, making the stains difficult to clean with just water and regular soap. If not treated immediately, these stains can be even more difficult to remove and make the mortar look dull and less hygienic.
To solve this problem, you do need other steps besides just washing it with soap. There are a number of tricks that can be applied to remove the stain.
This trick was once practiced by Instagram user @qualitygreens.id. Through one of the videos uploaded, he admitted to using only one kitchen ingredient to make the mortar more sterile and free from spice stains.
As reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @qualitygreens.id on Friday (11/29), the kitchen ingredient in question is salt. Well, this salt is also known for its antiseptic properties.
Salt can help kill bacteria and other microorganisms that stick to the surface of the mortar. This is important because leftover spices can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
photo: Instagram/@qualitygreens.id
How to use this salt is basically quite easy. Sprinkle coarse salt directly onto the surface of the mortar to be cleaned. After that, grind it evenly until it is completely smooth. You can add a little water when grinding the salt so that it is more evenly distributed throughout the surface of the mortar.
photo: Instagram/@qualitygreens.id
Next, remove the fine salt and rinse the mortar under running water. Once the salt is clean, rinse the mortar again with hot water. This will help kill any remaining bacteria and remove any salt residue that may be left in the pores of the mortar.
photo: Instagram/@qualitygreens.id
After rinsing, the mortar can be dried first. Only then can the mortar be used as usual to grind various spices. The stains from the spices that previously filled the pores of the mortar are gone, so there is no need to worry about contamination of the smell and taste of the spices to be ground.
Ensuring that the mortar is clean and sterile from spice stains before use is very important because spice residue that sticks to the mortar can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and microorganisms. If the mortar is not cleaned properly, these bacteria can contaminate the spices or food that is processed next, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. In addition, mold growth in a damp mortar can also occur, which can cause contamination of food.
On the other hand, taking good care of your mortar and cleaning it regularly can extend the life of the tool. Stains and spice residue left on for a long time can cause damage to the surface of the mortar, especially if it is made of natural materials such as stone or clay.
(brl/lea)
