Al Minhaz – Mortar - Ministry of Culture

Element Name

Al Minhaz – Mortar

Other Names

Al Hawun

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

All segments of society

Heritage Domain/ Category

Customs, Traditions and Social Etiquette

Element Type/ Subcategory

Traditions and Etiquette of Food and Hospitality

Current Status

Living heritage

Al Minhaz – Mortar

The Minhaz, or mortar, is a grinding utensil consisting of a deep cylindrical vessel made from iron, copper or wood, with a relatively narrow opening. It was traditionally used to grind dry ingredients such as coffee and spices, particularly cardamom. People took care to clean it with sand after grinding spices so that their aroma would not remain if coffee beans were subsequently ground in it.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Geographical or Cultural Specificity: The element is characterized by its association with a specific geographic area or cultural group within the country, giving it a unique identity that distinguishes it from other practices. This element represents part of the social and cultural history of the community, enhancing its value as a distinctive component of local or national identity.

02

Continuity and Intergenerational Transmission: The element is passed from one generation to the next, either orally through stories, songs, and narratives, or practically through training and hands-on practice. This living process ensures the element’s survival and development over time, while maintaining its connection to its cultural roots.