The history of the molcajete dates back thousands of years—used in pre-Hispanic times for grinding grains and spices—and this one is made with that same centuries-old tradition in mind. It’s hand-crafted from volcanic basalt, which has a rough, textured surface ideal for blending, grinding and breaking apart the skins of chilies, tomatoes, and other spices and ingredients. We really enjoy the size of these molcajetes, too. It’s light enough to maneuver easily, while also being large enough to hold a good amount of salsas and guacamole. We also liked the gently curved shape, which make grinding easier than the steeper sides of traditional mortar and pestles.

The molcajete is an iconic and essential part of the Mexican kitchen, and this one by Ancient Cookware is made with that same centuries-old tradition in mind. In a whimsical twist, this one is shaped like a pig. Hand-crafted from volcanic basalt, the rough, textured surface is ideal for blending, grinding and breaking apart chilies, tomatoes, whole spices and other ingredients when making salsa, guacamole or even mole. We also appreciate it for its size—light enough to maneuver easily while large enough to hold a good amount without pieces falling out of the bowl. The gently curved shape also makes grinding easier than with the steeper sides of many mortars and pestles.

The molcajete is an iconic and essential part of the Mexican kitchen, and this one by Ancient Cookware is made with that same centuries-old tradition in mind. Hand-crafted from volcanic basalt, the rough, textured surface is ideal for blending, grinding and breaking apart chilies, tomatoes, whole spices and other ingredients when making salsa, guacamole or even mole. We also appreciate it for its size—light enough to maneuver easily while large enough to hold a good amount without bits of ingredients falling out of the bowl. The gently curved shape also makes grinding easier than with the steeper sides of many mortar and pestle sets.