How to Measure Ingredients | Allrecipes

Summary

This video script emphasizes the importance of accurate measurement in baking, akin to the precision required in science. It suggests investing in basic, easy-to-use measuring tools, including graduated spoons and cups for both dry and liquid ingredients. The script provides detailed instructions on how to measure various ingredients correctly, such as leveling off dry ingredients and ensuring liquid measurements are accurate at eye level. It also addresses specific techniques for sticky substances and advises following recipe instructions precisely for best results, highlighting the role of measuring tools in achieving successful baking outcomes.

Takeaways

• 📏 **Accuracy in Measurement**: Accurate measurement is crucial in baking and cooking as it affects the outcome of recipes.
• 🥄 **Basic Measuring Tools**: Every home cook should have basic measuring spoons and cups, which don't need to be fancy or expensive.
• 🥄 **Measuring Spoons**: They come in graduated sizes for both wet and dry ingredients, including 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon.
• 🥄 **Measuring Dry Ingredients**: Use the 'dip and sweep' method to level off ingredients with the back of a knife.
• 🥄 **Measuring Wet Ingredients**: Hold the spoon level and fill it completely without spilling.
• 🥛 **Liquid Measuring Cups**: Have a clear cup with measurements printed on the side, a handle, and a pouring spout for liquids.
• 🥛 **Heatproof Measuring Cups**: Choose cups that are microwave safe and heatproof for hot ingredients.
• 🥛 **Measuring Sticky Liquids**: Use a thin coat of oil or butter on the inside of the cup to ensure sticky liquids pour out easily.
• 🧈 **Measuring Shortening**: Press it into the cup to remove air bubbles, then level it off.
• 🧈 **Measuring Butter**: Use the increments marked on the paper wrapper to measure stick butter.
• 🥄 **Avoid Pouring Directly**: Do not pour ingredients directly into a measuring cup held over a mixing bowl to avoid spilling.
• 📏 **Dry Measuring Cups**: Use different cups for dry ingredients like rice or sugar, with sizes for a fourth cup to a full cup.
• 📏 **Finesse for Different Ingredients**: Stir flour before measuring, sift powdered sugar, and pack brown sugar firmly before leveling.
• 📖 **Recipe Adherence**: Follow the recipe exactly the first time, then make adjustments once you understand the process.

Q & A

Why is accuracy important in measuring ingredients for baking?

Accuracy in measuring ingredients is crucial in baking because it affects how recipes turn out. Precise measurements ensure that the chemical reactions and textures in baked goods are consistent and as intended.

What types of measuring tools are recommended for a home cook according to the script?

The script recommends having measuring spoons, liquid measuring cups, and dry measuring cups. These tools should be simple, basic, and easy to use.

How should one measure dry ingredients using a measuring spoon?

To measure dry ingredients, one should dip the spoon into the ingredient and level it off with the back of a knife.

What is the correct way to measure wet ingredients with a measuring spoon?

For wet ingredients, hold the spoon level and pour the liquid until the spoon is completely full.

Why are two different types of measuring cups suggested in the script?

Two different types of measuring cups are suggested because one is for liquids like milk, water, or oils, and the other is for dry ingredients like flour or sugar. This prevents cross-contamination and ensures accurate measurements.

What are the features of a good liquid measuring cup as described in the script?

A good liquid measuring cup should be clear, have measurements printed on the side, a handle, a pouring spout, and enough headroom for ingredients that may expand.

How should one measure sticky thick liquids like molasses or honey?

For sticky thick liquids, it's best to wipe down the inside of the cup or measuring spoon with a little oil or butter before pouring. This thin coat of grease helps the liquid pour out easily and completely.

What is the recommended method for measuring shortening?

To measure shortening, scoop it out of the container and press it into the cup or spoon to force out any air bubbles or pockets, then level it off.

How should one measure dry ingredients like flour or powdered sugar?

For flour, it should be stirred first, then spooned into the measuring cup and leveled off. Powdered sugar needs to be sifted to remove lumps before measuring.

What does the script advise regarding the wording of a recipe when measuring ingredients?

The script advises to follow the recipe exactly as written the first time, paying close attention to how ingredients are worded, such as '1 cup sifted flour' or '1 cup flour, sifted,' which indicates whether to sift before or after measuring.

Why is it important not to pour ingredients directly into a measuring cup held over a mixing bowl?

Pouring ingredients directly into a measuring cup held over a mixing bowl can lead to accidentally spilling more than needed, resulting in inaccurate measurements.