How to Use Measuring Spoons and Cups
Measuring cups and spoons take the guesswork out of preparing a recipe. Although most can be fiddled with to some extent, recipes require the exact proportion of ingredients to turn out the way they are expected. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Purchase measuring cups and spoons from any grocery store, super center or online. You should look for graduated sets of metal cups and spoons. Glass measuring cups range in size from 1 cup to 4 cups or greater. Plastic measuring cups and spoons are fine also, if you never have to measure a hot liquid.
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Use the glass measuring cup for all things liquid, i.e., milk, water and oil. Set the cup on a level surface and fill to the marking on the side of the cup the amount of liquid required by the recipe.
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Read the recipe carefully to determine if dry measures should be heaping or level. Use the appropriate size cup or spoon to measure the ingredient. If the recipe calls for a level measure, use a butter knife or other flat surface to slide over the top of the cup or spoon for level. A heaping measurement is all you can get the cup or spoon to hold without spilling over.
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Keep your measuring cups and spoons in a handy place in the kitchen. It can be frustrating when you cannot find the size of cup you need when preparing a dish.
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Use a twisty tie or other means to keep graduated cups and spoons together. This makes finding the size you need easier.
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Tips & Warnings
Graduated measuring cups are generally sized 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup. They will usually nest together to take up less cabinet or drawer space.
Measuring spoons are generally sized at 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon. Like the cups, they will nest together to take up less space.
A glass measuring cup for liquids is preferable over plastic. The glass cup can be used in the microwave to warm liquids or can handle hot liquids straight from the pan.
