Kitchen Measuring Tools

When I follow a recipe, I like to measure what I add to what I am cooking to make sure I get it right but sometimes still end up in disaster. Famous chefs like Jaime Oliver, TV chef Iain Hewitson and Curtis Stone, never seems to worry about measuring, it seems that some cooks just add ”a little of this and a little of that” without measuring and cook their food "until it is done” with fine results.

However, many recipes require precise measurement and timing. For that reason it’s good idea to have stock your kitchen with accurate measuring tools and timers .

Resembling pitchers with calibrated measurements of fluid ounces and cups printed vertically on their sides, the best liquid measuring cups are made of heatproof tempered glass.

They have pour sprouts in their rims opposite a comfortable handle and are available in a variety of sizes to suit your needs.

 A cup with a 2-cup (16fl oz/500 –ml) capacity is the most versatile.

 Dry measuring cups come in sets of graduated volumes , typically ranging from ¼ cup (2 fl oz /60 ml) to 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml). 

They are usually made of stainless steel, heavy duty plastic or polycarbonate with a straight  rim that enables you to level the ingredient being measured for an accurate quantity.

Set of measuring spoons typically include spoons in increments of ¼ teaspoons, ½ teaspoon, 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon for measuring both dry and liquid ingredients. 

As with dry measuring cups,  level off dry ingredients in the spoon with a flat edge for accuracy.

A kitchen scales can be convenient especially for baking recipes, because it measures ingredients more accurately than measuring by volume.

Choose a scale whether manual or digital, capable of weighing up to 10 pounds (5 kg) in increments no larger than ¼ ounce (7g) and that also provides corresponding metric measurements.

The weighing bowl of a manual scale should be large enough to handle at least 2 cups (10 oz/315 g) of flour or an equivalent item.

Digital scales should allow you to weigh ingredients in any bowl or container.

Timers are an essential part of a well stocked kitchen. They remind you when it’s time to check on food as it cooks to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn. Some cooks even like to wear a timer around their neck, less they get distracted by other household tasks.

MANUAL TIMERS

Traditional manual timers are typically spring –activated models with dials that you turn to the desired length of time. When that time has elapsed the timer buzzes or rings like an alarm clock. They can be found in an array of colours.

ELECTRONIC TIMERS

These timers feature a digital display that beeps when the time is up. Some include multiple displays to help you keep track of the timing for more than one dish. Some sit on the counter, while others use a magnetic strip to stick to appliances.

• Different types of kitchen knives and their uses

  Good knives are essential part of your kitchen and it is good to know the different types of knives and their uses. Knowing the right knife to use for each task and how to use it makes cooking easier.