POSTED IN: Kitchen Tools , The Basics
TAGS: Cooking , Cucharas , Madera , Maya , Mexican , Spoons , Utensils , Wooden
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Wooden spoons are much more than essential tools in my kitchen. There is not one but many reasons why wooden spoons have been used for centuries and continue to this day.

Not only are they beautiful, but they are also good natured: they do not scrape or damage pots and pans. What's more, they don't absorb flavoring, so you can use them for something salty and then after a wash, use them for something sweet.

The spoons I have fill my kitchen with meaning, as they tell me stories from where I found them and where they come from. They connect me to those places and age with me, as they last so long (continue for more information and photos).

These pictured gorgeous spoons come from the middle of the jungle in the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve in the Southeastern state of Chiapas. They are handcrafted, made one by one, by the Hernandez family. Last December, we visited the area and stayed at the Eco-friendly hotel of Las Guacamayas. And there was Sandra Hernandez with her stand of wooden spoons and bowls. I got a couple the first day and then went back the next to get some for my mom and sisters, and ...the day before we left, I ran back to get some more for my friends.

Mexican wooden spoons come in all shapes and sizes for all cooking needs. Sandra's family makes theirs from Jobillo and Rokssul wood. Most of them are incredibly practical from big heavy spoons with large handles and deep bowls for making beans and soups,  to flat and straight spatulas. There are also some with an inclined edge that aligns with the way the arm moves as it stirs a pan for such things as scrambled eggs.

See the smallest one up there? So small and cute. Sandra recommended for spreading butter or jam. Although that little one may not seem so practical, it is a pleasure to use and it makes me smile each time I do.

I feel similarly about my spoons! In particular, the one my mother sent me off to college with that she had used for decades.

Those spoons are absolutley the most beautiful! I love them so much, I need to go to Chiapas right now! I really wish I could, but one day when I visit, I will have these on my list to buy for me and all of family and friends. They are gorgeous.

Very nice piece I love my wooden spoons. Are the spoons you got in Mexico available online?

Those are some beautiful spoons. I seen them everywhere down here but I don't have as many as I should. This weekend I'll changed that!

Hola Alejandra, I love seeing you here and thanks for jumping on my blog! I feel the same way about my comal that my mother got me 20 years ago, and I am sure your spoons will last for many delicious dishes to come :)

Hola David, Not that I know of...I guess you will have to take a trip to Chiapas ;)

I have been watching your show on PBS and just love the family admosphere you bring accross. I am interrested in what type of pots and pans you use. The other day you made your sons favorite chocolate birthday cake, and you started inn a pot. What I noticed is that the pot seemed like it was non-stick. Can you tell me the name of it and if it is available on line? Thank you so much :)

Hi Stephanie, Thank you so much for watching the show -- I really appreciate your positive feedback!! The pots are made by Bialetti.