Hullo to readers old and new! I recently wrote about the mortar and pestle, innovation, and modernity in Asia. You can read the essay here – there’s no paywall, and I think it’s one of the better things I’ve written. My publisher this week is the Prepared
The mortar and pestle story is excellent — I loved seeing the patent application illo of the Robot Coupe! Super interesting all the way through. Well done.
Literally loved this so much and am now a subscriber! But curious on one point: You mention that mortar and pestle were not important to food culture in Europe, but I feel like you must mean that comparatively? Obviously foods like pesto, aioli and other emulsions (hummus maybe even?) are hallmarks. Were they not traditionally made with a pounding implement? (I could very much be wrong, but am curious!)
The mortar and pestle story is excellent — I loved seeing the patent application illo of the Robot Coupe! Super interesting all the way through. Well done.
Literally loved this so much and am now a subscriber! But curious on one point: You mention that mortar and pestle were not important to food culture in Europe, but I feel like you must mean that comparatively? Obviously foods like pesto, aioli and other emulsions (hummus maybe even?) are hallmarks. Were they not traditionally made with a pounding implement? (I could very much be wrong, but am curious!)
Hullo Tse Wei, I'd like to discuss a couple of projects (one small and the other bigger) with you. Please contact me at the email given in my profile.