foto: Instagram/@annepermata
Brilio.net - Stone mortar is one of the kitchen tools that is often used to grind spices . Although there are now many modern crushing machines available, stone mortar is still the choice of many people. Some people believe that stone mortar can produce a more delicious texture and taste of spices because the grinding process is more even and natural.
However, using a stone mortar also has its own challenges. Starting from a cracked mortar, a sandy surface, to the appearance of mold on the surface of the mortar. This mold usually appears because the remaining spices are still stuck to the mortar and are not immediately cleaned after use. As a result, the surface of the mortar is covered in white or green spots, so it can no longer be used to grind food.
Usually, many people soak the mortar with salt or baking soda to overcome mold. But if you run out of these two ingredients, don't worry. There is another trick you can do to clean and prevent mold in stone mortars. This method was shared by Instagram user Anne Permata.
In the video she uploaded, Anne shows the steps to wash a stone mortar to keep it clean and free of mold. She shows her stone mortar that is full of white spots due to mold.
"This tip is for those of you who have washed the mortar, but white mold like this still appears," she said as quoted from Instagram @annepermata.
Steps to clean a stone mortar from mold1. Prepare a container filled with water. Use the water to soak the mortar for 1.5 hours.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
2. After soaking, lift and drain the mortar. Wipe the surface using a clean napkin and wait until the mortar is slightly dry.
3. Prepare half a cup of rice, pour it into the mortar, then pound it until smooth. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mortar.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
4. Rinse and soak the mortar again using warm water.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
5. Lift and drain the mortar until completely dry.
"Well, once it's done, there won't be any mold on the mortar anymore. It will be shiny, right!" he concluded.
How, it's really easy to practice, right?
5 FAQs about stone mortars and how to wash them1. Why can a stone mortar get moldy?
Stone mortars can become moldy if there is still food left on them and they are not cleaned immediately after use. Storing them in humid conditions can also trigger mold growth.
2. How to prevent mold on stone mortar?
After use, immediately clean the mortar and make sure it is completely dry before storing. Drying the mortar in the sun can also help prevent mold.
3. Is it permissible to wash a stone mortar with dishwashing soap?
It is better not to, because soap can seep into the pores of the mortar and affect the taste of the food. Use natural ingredients such as warm water, rice, or salt to clean it.
4. Why do new mortars often leave sand behind when used?
New mortars usually still have small stone chips on the surface. To fix this, grind rice or coarse salt on the mortar before using it for the first time.
5. How often should a stone mortar be thoroughly cleaned?
The mortar should be thoroughly cleaned after each use to prevent dirt buildup and prevent mold growth.
(brl/tin)
