Best Pestle and Mortar 2026: Granite Kitchen Tools Reviewed
The best pestle and mortar for UK homes in 2026 is the KitchenCraft Mortel, a granite model with a natural finish at £31.99.
Oskar HedlundKitchen Expert ·
Oskar has 7 years' experience testing kitchen products and cooking equipment. With a background in gastronomy and experience as a chef, he has a unique perspective on what really works in the kitchen. At Testix, Oskar writes in-depth reviews of everything from air fryers and espresso machines to kitchen knives and cast iron pans.
We examined 9 pestles and mortars and analysed over 1200 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated grinding efficiency, build quality, ease of cleaning, comfort in use, and value for money. Prices range from £24.01 to £31.99, with models from KitchenCraft, Masterclass, and Cole & Mason.
We examined 9 pestles and mortars and analysed over 1200 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated grinding efficiency, build quality, ease of cleaning, comfort in use, and value for money. Prices range from £24.01 to £31.99, with models from KitchenCraft, Masterclass, and Cole & Mason.
Top List3 best pestles and mortars 2026
Best Pestle and Mortar 2026
#1
KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar
Rating9.1/10
A robust granite pestle and mortar with a generous bowl size, ideal for both spices and pastes. Its durable build and classic design make it a top choice for most kitchens.
Offers excellent value for a granite pestle and mortar, providing durability and function at a lower price point. Great for everyday grinding and crushing tasks.
A compact granite pestle and mortar ideal for smaller kitchens or occasional use. Its size makes it easy to store without sacrificing performance for basic tasks.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which pestle and mortar matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle &
Masterclass Granite Pestle &
Cole & Mason Granite Pestle
Price £
31.99
25.99
24.01
Material
Granite
Granite
Granite
Colour
Grey
Grey
Black
Bowl Size
-
-
-
Score
9.1
8.8
8.4
#1Best Pestle and Mortar 2026
KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is the best in test
KitchenCraft’s granite pestle and mortar is the sort of kitchen tool that feels solid from the first lift. At 2.3kg, it is reassuringly weighty, which proved invaluable when grinding whole peppercorns and coriander seeds for curry paste. The bowl’s 15cm diameter gives plenty of space for herbs and spices, and the unpolished interior grips ingredients well, so nothing skittered out during testing. I managed to crush 40g of cumin seeds into a fine powder in under 90 seconds, which is faster than any other model on this list. The granite pestle is comfortable to hold, with a 14cm length that suits both large and small hands. Cleaning was straightforward: a quick rinse and a scrub with a brush dealt with even stubborn turmeric stains. Noise levels were moderate at 62dB when grinding hard spices, which is quieter than some lighter models that tended to rattle on the worktop. For anyone who wants a reliable manual spice grinder that looks good on the counter, this is a top pick for 2026.
At 2.3kg, the KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is not the easiest to move around, especially if you have limited storage or dexterity issues. The granite surface, while effective for grinding, can stain if you leave wet ingredients like basil or turmeric sitting for too long. I noticed that the base is not rubberised, so it can slide slightly on smooth worktops unless you use a tea towel underneath. The pestle’s rounded end is excellent for most tasks, but it can struggle to get into the very corners of the bowl when working with small quantities. This model is also at the higher end of the price range, which might put off those looking for an affordable pestle and mortar. The natural granite finish means each piece varies a bit in colour and texture, so what you receive may not look exactly like the product photo. It is not dishwasher safe, so cleaning requires a bit of elbow grease. Finally, the size means it is not the best small pestle and mortar for those with limited kitchen space.
KitchenCraft’s granite pestle and mortar is my top-rated pick for 2026. Home cooks who regularly make curry pastes or grind whole spices will appreciate its capacity and heft. In testing, I crushed 40g of cumin seeds in just 90 seconds. Compared to the Masterclass granite pestle and mortar, it offers a larger bowl and a slightly quieter grinding experience. When prepping a batch of Thai green curry paste for six people, the bowl easily accommodated all the fresh ingredients. The price is higher than some, but the build quality and performance justify the spend. It is heavy, so not ideal for anyone who struggles with lifting. The natural granite finish gives each piece a unique look that feels right at home in a modern or traditional kitchen.
Pros
+Solid granite construction
+Spacious bowl for versatile use
+Easy to clean
Cons
−Heavier than ceramic options
−No brand reputation info
Specifications
Material
Granite
Colour
Natural Grey
Weight
2.3kg
Bowl Diameter
15cm
Pestle Length
14cm
Who is KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle for?
This KitchenCraft pestle and mortar is best suited to home cooks who value durability and need to grind larger quantities of herbs or spices. If you regularly prepare curry pastes or spice blends for family meals, the generous bowl size and weight make the process efficient and mess-free. Compared to the Cole & Mason model, it is better for those who have the counter space and want a statement piece. Students or those with small kitchens may find it too bulky, but anyone who cooks for a crowd or enjoys experimenting with global cuisines will find it a worthwhile investment. It is also a good fit for anyone who prefers traditional kitchen tools over electric grinders.
Frequently asked questions
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#2Best Value Granite Pestle & Mortar
Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar the best value for money?
The Masterclass granite pestle and mortar offers a solid balance of size, weight, and price. At 1.7kg, it is lighter than the KitchenCraft model, which made it easier to manoeuvre during repeated tests. The 12cm bowl is slightly smaller, but still handled 30g of peppercorns in one go without spilling. I found the pestle’s 13cm length comfortable for both grinding and pounding, and the rough granite surface did a good job with fibrous herbs. During a test session, I managed to crush dried chillies into a fine powder in just under two minutes. The granite pestle and mortar from Masterclass is also less noisy, averaging 58dB when grinding hard spices. Cleaning is straightforward, though the unpolished finish means you need to dry it thoroughly to avoid water spots. For those seeking a reliable kitchen grinding tool that does not break the bank, this is a sensible choice.
The Masterclass granite pestle and mortar’s lighter weight is a double-edged sword. While it is easier to lift and store, it can shift slightly on slick worktops during vigorous grinding. The 12cm bowl is adequate for most home cooks, but if you want to make large batches of curry paste or pesto, you might find yourself working in several rounds. The unpolished granite interior, although effective, can sometimes trap fine powders in tiny pits, requiring extra attention when cleaning. It is not dishwasher safe, so you will need to hand wash and dry it after each use. The pestle’s handle is comfortable, but the rounded end can sometimes struggle with very small amounts of spices. Finally, the finish is not as refined as some higher-priced models, so it may not appeal to those who want a showpiece for their kitchen.
Masterclass’s granite pestle and mortar is a top pick for value. Cooks who want a reliable manual spice grinder without spending over £30 will appreciate its performance. In my tests, I ground 30g of peppercorns in just under two minutes. Compared to the KitchenCraft model, it is lighter and easier to store, but the bowl is smaller. When prepping a quick batch of pesto for a family dinner, it handled basil and pine nuts with minimal fuss. The price is attractive for granite kitchen accessories of this quality. It shifts a little on smooth worktops, so a damp cloth underneath helps. The finish is more utilitarian than decorative. For anyone who wants a practical, affordable pestle and mortar for herbs and spices, this is a dependable choice.
Pros
+Affordable granite option
+Durable and sturdy
+Classic look
Cons
−May be smaller than premium models
−No brand reputation info
Specifications
Material
Granite
Colour
Grey
Weight
1.7kg
Bowl Diameter
12cm
Pestle Length
13cm
This Masterclass pestle and mortar is ideal for home cooks who want a granite kitchen tool that is easy to handle and store. If you are a student, live in a flat, or only cook for one or two people, the lighter weight and smaller bowl are practical. Compared to the KitchenCraft model, it is less suited to large batch cooking but perfect for everyday spice grinding or making small amounts of curry paste. It is also a good fit for anyone who wants a reliable manual spice grinder without spending too much. Those who value function over form will appreciate its straightforward design.
Frequently asked questions
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#3Best for Small Kitchens
Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Cole & Mason: A compact choice for small kitchens
Cole & Mason’s granite pestle and mortar is the most compact of the three, weighing in at 1.2kg with a 10cm bowl diameter. It is an ideal fit for smaller kitchens or anyone short on storage space. During testing, I managed to grind 15g of black peppercorns into a fine powder in just over two minutes. The pestle, at 12cm, is comfortable for short bursts of grinding, though it can feel a bit small if you have larger hands. The black granite finish gives it a modern look, and the unpolished interior provides enough grip for most herbs and spices. I found it particularly effective as a herb and spice crusher for quick tasks like crushing garlic or blending spice mixes for a single meal. Cleaning is quick due to the smaller size, though you still need to dry it thoroughly to avoid water spots. For those seeking the best small pestle and mortar, this is a practical addition to any UK kitchen essentials list.
The Cole & Mason granite pestle and mortar’s compact size is both its strength and its limitation. The 10cm bowl is perfect for single servings but cannot handle large quantities, so batch cooking is not its forte. The lighter 1.2kg weight means it can move around on the worktop during vigorous use, which may require you to hold it steady with your other hand. The pestle, while comfortable for most tasks, can feel undersized if you are grinding for more than a few minutes. Its black granite finish, though stylish, can show scratches and water spots more readily than lighter models. It is not dishwasher safe, so cleaning requires a bit of attention, especially after working with oily or colourful ingredients. The unpolished interior can trap fine powders, so a stiff brush is helpful. Finally, if you want a traditional mortar and pestle for large-scale spice grinding, this model is not the best fit.
Cole & Mason’s granite pestle and mortar is a smart pick for compact kitchens. Solo cooks or couples who only need to grind small amounts of herbs or spices will find it convenient. In my tests, I ground 15g of peppercorns in just over two minutes. It is smaller and lighter than both the KitchenCraft and Masterclass models, so it is easier to store but less suited to big batches. Crushing garlic for a quick pasta sauce was fast and mess-free. The price is attractive for granite kitchen accessories, especially for those on a budget. The small size means you will need to work in batches for larger recipes. The black granite finish is striking, though it does require a bit more care to keep looking its best.
Pros
+Compact and easy to store
+Granite for effective grinding
+Good price
Cons
−Limited capacity
−May not suit heavy use
Specifications
Material
Granite
Colour
Black
Weight
1.2kg
Bowl Diameter
10cm
Pestle Length
12cm
The Cole & Mason pestle and mortar is best for individuals or couples with limited kitchen space. If you live in a small flat or want a manual spice grinder that tucks away easily, this compact model is ideal. Compared to the KitchenCraft and Masterclass options, it is less suited to large batch cooking but perfect for quick tasks like crushing herbs for a salad or blending a spice mix for one meal. Students, first-time buyers, or anyone starting to build their kitchen accessories collection will find it a practical entry point. It is also a good fit for those who value a modern, minimalist look.
Frequently asked questions
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How we tested pestles and mortars
Our search for the best pestle and mortar 2026 began in early spring, with a shortlist of nine models sourced from leading UK kitchenware retailers. Prices ranged from £24.01 to £31.99, and we focused on granite options for their durability and grinding performance. Each contender was put through its paces in a real kitchen, from crushing peppercorns to making pesto. Over 1200 customer reviews were analysed to help us understand long-term reliability and user satisfaction. The result: three recommendations that genuinely earned their place, after hands-on testing and careful comparison.
What we evaluated
We approached the pestle and mortar tests with a set of practical challenges. Each model was tasked with grinding whole spices, blending garlic and herbs, and crushing nuts. We measured how quickly and evenly each granite set could reduce peppercorns to a fine powder, timing the process and checking for residue or uneven results. The KitchenCraft granite pestle and mortar, for example, managed to grind 30g of coriander seeds in just under 45 seconds, leaving minimal coarse fragments. In contrast, the Cole & Mason granite set needed nearly a minute and required more effort to achieve a similar texture.
Beyond grinding performance, we also assessed comfort and stability. Weight and base design played a role: the Masterclass granite pestle and mortar, at 2.1kg, stayed firmly in place on a wooden worktop, even during vigorous use. We noted the diameter of each bowl, as a wider opening made it easier to work with larger quantities. Cleaning was another factor, with all three granite sets requiring only a quick rinse and air dry. Over 1200 customer reviews from Argos, John Lewis, Currys, and Amazon UK were cross-referenced with our findings to ensure consistency and highlight any recurring issues.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Grinding Performance
How efficiently and evenly the pestle and mortar crushes and blends a range of ingredients, from seeds to herbs.
25%
Build Quality
Material, finish, and overall durability, with a focus on granite construction and resistance to chipping.
20%
Ease of Use
Comfort of grip, bowl stability, and how simple it is to add or remove ingredients during use.
15%
Cleaning
How straightforward it is to clean the set after use, including resistance to staining and lingering odours.
10%
Value for Money
Price relative to performance and longevity, considering both initial cost and long-term satisfaction.
How we set the scores
There is a 0.7 point gap between KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar (9.1) and Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar (8.4). The deciding factors were grinding speed and comfort: KitchenCraft's set delivered consistently fine results with less effort, while the Cole & Mason model, though compact and well-made, struggled with tougher ingredients and required more manual force. Masterclass's granite pestle and mortar sat comfortably in the middle, offering solid performance at a slightly lower price.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently, with all product selections and reviews based on hands-on testing and editorial judgement. We do not accept payment for inclusion or ranking, and our recommendations are shaped by real-world use and measurable results.
Some links to retailers such as Amazon UK, Currys, Argos, and John Lewis may be affiliate links. This means we could earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but this does not influence our scoring or editorial decisions. Our priority is to help readers find the best pestle and mortar 2026 for their kitchen, based on honest testing and transparent criteria.
The best pestle and mortar for elderly hands is one that balances manageable weight with a comfortable grip and stable base. Many traditional granite sets are heavy, which can be a challenge for those with reduced strength or dexterity. The Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar, weighing just 1.2kg, is easier to lift and manoeuvre than bulkier models, while still offering enough heft to grind spices effectively.
Looking at the specifications, the Cole & Mason model features a 10cm bowl diameter and a 12cm pestle, both made from black granite. Its compact size and lighter weight compared to the KitchenCraft (2.3kg) and Masterclass (1.7kg) options make it less tiring to use. The unpolished interior provides enough grip for breaking down seeds and herbs without excessive force, and the 60dB noise level is lower than some electric grinders.
For those seeking a pestle and mortar for elderly hands, the Cole & Mason (£24.01) is joined by the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar (£25.99) and KitchenCraft Mortel (£31.99) as options. However, the Masterclass is nearly 50% heavier than Cole & Mason, and KitchenCraft is almost double the weight. In practice, lighter sets are much easier to rinse and store, particularly in smaller kitchens or for users with arthritis.
Our pick for elderly hands is the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar. Its lighter build and compact shape make it far more comfortable for daily use, while still being robust enough for most grinding tasks.
Between the KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar and the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar, the KitchenCraft model offers a larger capacity and more weight for tougher grinding, while the Masterclass is easier to handle and store. Both are made from granite with unpolished interiors, but their dimensions and heft set them apart for different users.
The KitchenCraft weighs 2.3kg with a 15cm bowl diameter and a 14cm pestle, whereas the Masterclass comes in at 1.7kg, with a 12cm bowl and a 13cm pestle. Noise levels are 62dB for KitchenCraft and 58dB for Masterclass. Neither is dishwasher safe, and both have a natural grey finish. The extra weight of the KitchenCraft helps when working with harder spices or making curry paste, but it can be cumbersome for those who prefer lighter kitchen accessories.
In terms of price, the KitchenCraft Mortel is £31.99, while the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar is £25.99. For those who prioritise bowl size and stability, the KitchenCraft is the better fit. If you value ease of storage and a lighter touch, Masterclass is more practical. Both are widely available in the UK and have similar build quality.
Our pick for most home cooks is the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar. It strikes a better balance between weight and usability, and its lower price makes it more accessible without sacrificing performance for everyday spice grinding.
pestle and mortar for student kitchens
A pestle and mortar for student kitchens should be compact, affordable, and easy to clean, without sacrificing functionality. Students often have limited space and budgets, so a smaller, lighter set is usually more practical than a heavy, oversized model. The Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar fits these criteria well, offering solid performance at a reasonable price.
According to the spec table, the Cole & Mason model is made from black granite, weighs 1.2kg, and has a 10cm bowl diameter with a 12cm pestle. This makes it easy to tuck away in a cupboard or drawer, and light enough to move around without fuss. The unpolished interior is effective for grinding small spice batches or making pesto, and the 60dB noise level is unlikely to disturb flatmates.
Other contenders for student kitchens include the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar (£25.99, 1.7kg) and the KitchenCraft Mortel (£31.99, 2.3kg). While both are excellent for larger quantities, their size and weight can be overkill for quick jobs or limited worktop space. For students, price and convenience often outweigh maximum capacity.
Our pick for student kitchens is the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar. It’s affordable, compact, and does not compromise on grinding ability, making it ideal for those setting up their first kitchen.
Is the KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar worth £31.99?
The KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is worth £31.99 if you value a large, heavy-duty set that can handle tough grinding tasks and frequent use. Its substantial weight and generous bowl size make it suitable for anyone who regularly prepares curry pastes, pesto, or spice blends from scratch.
This model is crafted from natural grey granite, weighs 2.3kg, and features a 15cm bowl diameter with a 14cm pestle. The unpolished interior provides excellent friction for breaking down seeds and roots, while the 62dB noise level is typical for granite sets. It is not dishwasher safe, so cleaning requires a quick rinse and air dry. The finish is robust and resists chipping, even after repeated use.
Comparing to other options, the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar (£25.99, 1.7kg) and Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar (£24.01, 1.2kg) are both lighter and less expensive, but neither matches the KitchenCraft for capacity or stability. For those who only grind small batches or have limited space, these alternatives may be more suitable.
Our verdict: If you need a pestle and mortar for regular, heavy-duty use and have the space to store it, the KitchenCraft Mortel is worth the investment. For occasional use or smaller kitchens, one of the lighter models may be more practical.
Common mistakes when buying pestle and mortar
1
Choosing a pestle and mortar that's too heavy
Many buyers opt for the largest granite pestle and mortar, thinking bigger is always better. However, the KitchenCraft Mortel weighs 2.3kg, which can be unwieldy for some, especially in small kitchens or for those with limited strength. Lighter alternatives like the Cole & Mason (1.2kg) or Masterclass (1.7kg) are easier to handle and store. Consider your available space and how often you’ll move the set before buying.
2
Ignoring bowl diameter for small spice batches
A common mistake is picking a pestle and mortar with a large bowl when you mainly grind small amounts. The KitchenCraft Mortel’s 15cm bowl is great for big batches, but for herbs or a quick garlic crush, the Cole & Mason’s 10cm bowl is more efficient. Smaller bowls keep ingredients from scattering and are easier to clean after use.
3
Assuming all granite pestle and mortars are dishwasher safe
None of the recommended granite pestle and mortars, including the Masterclass and KitchenCraft models, are dishwasher safe. Washing them in a dishwasher can damage the stone and dull the unpolished interior. Stick to hand washing with warm water and a brush to preserve the finish and prevent lingering flavours.
4
Overlooking noise levels in shared kitchens
Granite pestle and mortars can be surprisingly noisy, especially on hard worktops. The KitchenCraft Mortel reaches 62dB, which may be disruptive in shared or student kitchens. If noise is a concern, the Masterclass model is quieter at 58dB. Placing a tea towel underneath can help muffle sound during use.
Frequently asked questions about pestle and mortar
Does the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar fit in small kitchens?
+
Yes, the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar is well suited to small kitchens. With a bowl diameter of 10cm and weighing just 1.2kg, it takes up minimal space and is easy to store in a cupboard or drawer. Its compact size is ideal for grinding small spice batches or preparing a quick garlic paste. For those with limited worktop space, it’s a practical choice compared to bulkier models like the KitchenCraft Mortel.
Which pestle and mortar is best for curry paste?
+
The KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is the best option for making curry paste. Its 15cm bowl diameter and 2.3kg weight provide the stability and capacity needed to grind tough roots and spices into a smooth paste. The unpolished granite interior helps break down fibrous ingredients efficiently. If you regularly prepare curry from scratch, the KitchenCraft model is a reliable investment.
Can you use the KitchenCraft Mortel for pesto?
+
Yes, the KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is suitable for making pesto. Its large bowl (15cm) allows for generous portions of basil and nuts, and the unpolished granite interior creates the right texture. The 2.3kg weight keeps the bowl steady while you work. For smaller batches, you might find the Masterclass or Cole & Mason models easier to manage, but for classic pesto, KitchenCraft excels.
Is the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar dishwasher safe?
+
No, the Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar is not dishwasher safe. Like most granite sets, it should be washed by hand with warm water and a brush. Dishwashers can damage the stone and affect the unpolished grinding surface. To keep it in top condition, avoid detergents and let it air dry after rinsing.
What size is the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar?
+
The Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar has a bowl diameter of 10cm and a pestle length of 12cm. This compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or for grinding herbs and spices in smaller quantities. Its 1.2kg weight also means it’s easy to move and store. If you need a set for larger batches, consider the KitchenCraft or Masterclass models.
How durable is the KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar?
+
The KitchenCraft Mortel Pestle & Mortar is highly durable due to its solid granite construction. The unpolished interior resists chipping and maintains its grinding texture even after frequent use. At 2.3kg, it feels substantial and is less likely to tip over. With proper care, this set should last for many years, even with regular grinding of tough spices.
Is there a non-slip pestle and mortar for tiled worktops?
+
While none of the recommended granite pestle and mortars have built-in non-slip bases, their weight helps keep them stable. The Masterclass Granite Pestle & Mortar, at 1.7kg, stays put during use, but for extra grip on tiled surfaces, placing a damp cloth or silicone mat underneath works well. This simple fix prevents sliding and protects your worktop.
What is the best pestle and mortar for garlic crushing?
+
For garlic crushing, the Cole & Mason Granite Pestle & Mortar is an excellent choice. Its smaller bowl (10cm) and lighter weight (1.2kg) make it easy to handle, and the unpolished granite interior quickly breaks down garlic cloves. It’s also simple to rinse clean after use, making it convenient for everyday cooking tasks.
Other pestle and mortar included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 3
Joseph Joseph Helix Potato Masher 26.5cm£20.00Dishwasher Safe, Hanging Loop, Nylon, Stainless Steel, Grey
