Jamie Oliver Transforms Cooking with His Favorite $9 Kitchen Tool

A recent cooking class led by renowned chef Jamie Oliver has sparked a renewed appreciation for a humble kitchen tool: the mortar and pestle. This affordable device, priced at around $9, emerged as Oliver’s favorite cooking implement during a pasta-making class hosted by Airbnb and Chef’s Table at his television studio.

The event, held earlier this month, aimed to blend culture and culinary art while offering participants an opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry. Over the course of three hours, Oliver shared his expertise, emphasizing that great cooking often relies on simplicity and tradition rather than expensive gadgets.

During the workshop, Oliver illustrated the merits of the mortar and pestle, a tool with origins dating back over 35,000 years. He stated, “No real cook hasn’t got one of these. It’s biblical.” His enthusiasm for this classic method was contagious, as he demonstrated its effectiveness in creating a creamy pesto, which he claims surpasses the texture produced by modern blenders or food processors.

As participants prepared their own batches of pesto, Oliver revealed a unique twist: the addition of boiled potato. This ingredient, ground into the mixture, imparts a delightful creaminess that elevates the dish. Oliver noted, “Most chefs don’t know this,” hinting at the secrets that can transform everyday recipes into something special.

The workshop provided an engaging atmosphere where attendees not only learned technique but also gained insight into the philosophy of cooking. Oliver’s approach champions accessibility in the kitchen, encouraging everyone to embrace homemade food. “Good food is for everyone,” he reiterated, making the art of cooking feel approachable and enjoyable.

For those looking to add a mortar and pestle to their kitchen arsenal, Oliver recommended opting for larger versions, humorously dismissing smaller models as inadequate. His preference for substantial tools reflects a belief in their effectiveness and ease of use.

In addition to the mortar and pestle, Oliver’s class highlighted the importance of using high-quality ingredients. He suggested saving a bit of pasta water to adjust the consistency of the pesto, ensuring it remains vibrant and flavorful.

The experience left a lasting impression on participants, many of whom have already begun to incorporate these techniques into their own cooking. One attendee remarked, “I’m never making pesto another way again,” reaffirming the impact of Oliver’s teachings.

As the culinary world continues to evolve, Oliver’s advocacy for traditional methods serves as a reminder of the joys of cooking with simplicity and creativity. The mortar and pestle, once overlooked, is now poised for a resurgence as home cooks seek to enhance their culinary skills with time-honored techniques.