Once you've outfitted your home with some essential kitchen gear, another item that's fun to own is a mortar and pestle. They're great for grinding whole spices, crushing fresh herbs, preparing dry rubs for backyard cooking, making fresh salsa/guacamole/hummus/etc, and more.

This iconic mortar and pestle from Wade Ceramics' Milton Brook collection is a beautiful option. The unglazed porcelain surface not only offers just enough resistance for efficient grinding, but is also easy to clean later. The mortar is heavier than it looks — which helps keep it steady while you work — and the pestle's wooden beech handle provides a secure grip.

They offer many diameter sizes of the mortar to fit a variety of kitchens/needs:

• 4-inch ($24)
• 4.5-inch ($25)
• 5.25-inch ($35)
• 6-inch ($40)
• 6.5-inch ($43)
• 8-inch ($50)
• 12-inch ($111)