What are Measuring Spoons?

Measuring spoons are spoons that measure small amounts of wet and dry ingredients.  Most measuring spoons come in sets of four or six.  A set of four measuring spoons includes ¼ teaspoon, ½ teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon sizes.  A set of six measuring spoons usually includes ⅛ teaspoon, ¼ teaspoon, ½ teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, ½ tablespoon, and 1 tablespoon sizes.  Some sets also include ⅓ teaspoon and 2 tablespoons. Some sets even show all metric measurements.  The sizes are written on the handles of the spoons.  The sizes of some sets are color-coded for easier access.  Most measuring spoons are plastic, silicone, or stainless steel, but some are made of aluminum, glass, or ceramic.

What are Measuring Spoons Used For?

Measuring spoons are used for measuring small, exact amounts of ingredients.  Measuring spoons accurately measure spices and other dry ingredients such as baking powder and even small amounts of flour.  Liquid ingredients, such as honey, milk, or tomato paste, are also measured in measuring spoons.  Most measuring spoons have circular ends, but some are rectangular to scoop out spices from spice jars.

What are the Different Types of Measuring Spoons?

• Plastic
• Silicone
• Stainless Steel

Plastic: Plastic measuring spoons are usually durable and can last for years.  Plastic measuring spoons stain over time.  Even though plastic measuring spoons are usually made from thick plastic, they can melt or break if they are placed in the bottom rack of the dishwasher.  This means that most plastic measuring spoons are only dishwasher safe in the top rack.

Silicone: Silicone measuring spoons are best suited for sticky ingredients because of the nonstick nature of silicone.  Some silicone measuring spoon sets are collapsible for easy storage.  Silicone measuring spoons can be flimsy when scooping heavier ingredients, but some silicone measuring spoons are reinforced to make them stronger.  Silicone measuring spoons may be able to go in the dishwasher after use.

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel measuring spoons are considered extremely accurate when measuring ingredients.  They are durable and can last for years.  Most stainless steel measuring spoons are coated to prevent rust and increase their life.  Not all stainless steel measuring spoons are dishwasher safe, so you will have to check the manufacturer’s washing instructions.

Recipes Using Measuring Spoons

Caper Sauce

Caper sauce adds great flavor to any chicken or salmon dish. Measure capers, lemon juice, pepper, garlic, and butter and simmer into a delicious sauce.

Sugar Cookies with Turmeric

Enjoy a tangy twist on a classic recipe. Measure out 2 teaspoons of turmeric and incorporate into the dry ingredients. Prepare your favorite sugar cookie recipe as directed and bake. Your cookies will have a delicious new flavor.

Homemade Italian Seasoning

Homemade seasoning combines dried herbs into an all-purpose Italian spice blend. Measure out and combine 1 part thyme, basil, rosemary, and sage with 2 parts basil and oregano. For a little kick, add in 1 part red pepper flakes.

Dill Butter

Create a tasty spread to enjoy over bread or served melted over warm potatoes. Soften a stick of butter to room temperature. Mix a teaspoon of fresh dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the butter until completely combined. Store butter in the refrigerator.