The mortar and pestle are a tool formed by two pieces used to grind, crush and mix different substances. The mortar is a bowl in which substance is put. The pestle is a heavy stick with rounded ends that is held by one end and pressed with the other end on the substance in the mortar.The mortar and pestle are known all around the world and each culture has adapted them to its resources. While the Japanese have preferred to make their mortar (suribachi) from glazed rigid earthenware and pestle (surikogi) from wood, the Mexicans used black lava stone to make their "molcajete y tejolote." Some suggest the mortar & pestle may have even played a key role in igniting human history. By dramatically increasing food supplies through the processing of rice and other grains into easily digestible meals, the mortar & pestle may have convinced ancient peoples to abandon their traditional hunting and gathering lifestyles in favor of civilizations based around agriculture.s the mortar & pestle spread around the world, each culture refined its design, crafting it from materials available in its geography and applying it to tasks essential to its people. The mortar and pestle have been used for many things throughout history and can make a nice modern addition to the kitchen, especially if you are considering using non-electrical appliances. Whether making tea or guacamole or grinding up herbs, spices or peppercorns for a meal, the mortar and pestle gives the food processor a run for its money.