Metate

The metate is a slightly inclined slab of volcanic stone on three short legs, used with a stone roller called a metlapil or mano to grind corn, chiles, cacao and spices. It dates from pre-Hispanic times and is still used in traditional kitchens to prepare masa, moles and chocolate.

Don’t confuse it with the molcajete, the three-legged stone mortar used with a tejolote (pestle) to crush ingredients for salsas.