Gift Guide 2019: A Truly Great Pestle

Nigel Slater has one. Nigella Lawson has one too. And they both swear by their flat mortar and pestles. Now I want one too.

Think about it: doesn't it make sense to work on a flat surface when you're making pesto or guacamole? And doesn't it make sense to have a pestle that nestles into your hand?

They're beautiful. They're expensive. And as far as I can tell, the only way to get the gorgeous one they have is to order it from English ceramicist John Julian, who makes them by hand. (Here's an American source.....)

And while we're on the subject of pestles - if you've never seen this hilarious clip from The Court Jester, you have a real treat in store. The vessel with the pestle....

Okay, can't help myself. Speaking of Danny Kaye (the great actor was one of the best cooks I've ever met), here he is with Louis Armstrong: When the Saints...