Shila Bata | Traditional Indian Stone Grinder | Turmeric root-Neem Mask
Most cultures have a traditional stone grinder, either flat or a mortar pestle, cylindrical, wet, or dry grinders. This is a traditional grinding stone in India called Shila (stone) Bata (grind). It's known by different names across the country, with slight differences in design. The concept is same--a heavy, thick rock is cut flat for the base and as a cylinder or triangle for the grinder. Designs are carved into the stone, usually leaves, fish, flowers, etc., which create tiny grooves and friction. If you look closely, you will find fish designs carved into the base and the grinder. This grinder (the part you hold with your hand) is shaped like a blunt triangle, although I'm more used to a cylindrical one. You grip the grinder on two sides and move it firmly up and down the base, over whatever you want to make into a paste.
Chutneys and any curry base are traditionally made like this and trust me, there is a distinct difference in both texture and taste between one made using a grinding stone and in a food processor. You do need good upper body strength but the technique is actually a very light flick of the wrist and doesn't really strain your arms much. And as the leaves, seeds, roots, onions, garlic, gingers, etc. get crushed, it releases the most refreshing aroma. Cooking for me, and many people, is a holistic sensory experience. You cook with your nose before you even look at a pot. Stone grinders make everything so tactile and although more time consuming, it is a very satisfying experience.
Here I was making a face and body mask of turmeric root (yes, it looks like ginger) and neem leaves, both of which grow in my garden at home. Neem trees can be big!