Tea Spoon Vs Table Spoon: Which One to Use?
When it comes to measuring ingredients while cooking or baking, we usually use spoons as one of our most common tools. However, when we talk about spoons, there are two types that usually come to mind, tea spoon and table spoon. These two spoons also vary in size and function.
The primary difference between a tea spoon and a table spoon is their size. A tea spoon is smaller in size than a table spoon. A tea spoon is usually used for stirring sugar, cream, or milk into hot drinks like tea or coffee. It’s also used for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like salt or baking powder. A table spoon, on the other hand, is usually used for stirring or serving food like sauces, soups, or stews. It’s also used for measuring larger quantities of ingredients like cooking oils, sauces, or syrups.
In this article, we will discuss the differences between tea spoon and table spoon and when to use them.
Size and Capacity
As stated earlier, the most significant difference between the tea spoon and table spoon is their size. A tea spoon is smaller and usually measures about 5 milliliters while a table spoon measures about 15 milliliters.
The size of a tea spoon makes it easier to handle and use in recipes that require small quantities of ingredients. A tea spoon is suitable for measuring spices, extracts, and other flavorings that need to be accurately measured out in small amounts.
A table spoon is more substantial and has a larger capacity. It’s suitable for measuring larger quantities of ingredients like flour, sugar, or liquids. Its size makes it easier to mix ingredients in a bowl or cook them in a pot or pan.
Functionality
The functionality of both teaspoons and tablespoons also differs. A tea spoon is often used for stirring, measuring small quantities of ingredients, and adding flavorings like sugar or cream to hot drinks such as tea and coffee.
On the other hand, a table spoon is used more for serving food or measuring larger quantities of ingredients. It’s frequently used for stirring soup, mixing ingredients on a large platter, or spreading frosting on a cake.
When to Use a Tea spoon?
Tea spoons are frequently used when cooking or baking. When measuring out ingredients, they are perfect for small amounts of ingredients like baking soda, salt, or spices. They are also ideal for:
– Stirring in sugar or cream into coffee or tea
– Measuring out vanilla extract, lemon zest, or other flavorings
– Mixing seasonings into sauces and marinades
– Scooping jelly, jam or honey
When to Use a Table spoon?
Table spoons are also used when cooking and baking. They are perfect for larger quantities of ingredients like flour, sugar, or liquids. They are also great for:
– Measuring cooking oil or melted butter
– Mixing salad dressing and marinades
– Serving soups, stews, or casseroles
– Mixing together ingredients in a large bowl
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a tea spoon instead of a table spoon?
A: It’s not recommended to use a tea spoon instead of a table spoon when measuring out larger amounts of ingredients. It will take longer to measure out the correct amount of ingredient using a tea spoon, and it may not be as accurate.
Q: Can I use a table spoon instead of a tea spoon?
A: It’s not recommended to use a table spoon instead of a tea spoon when measuring out smaller amounts of ingredients. It will be harder to measure precisely, and you may add too much of the ingredient.
Q: What is the standard capacity of a tea spoon?
A: The standard capacity of a tea spoon is five milliliters.
Q: What is the standard capacity of a table spoon?
A: The standard capacity of a table spoon is 15 milliliters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both tea spoon and table spoon serve different purposes in the kitchen. Knowing their size and functionality is essential so that you can use them accurately. Using the wrong spoon can lead to inaccurate measurements and may affect the outcome of your recipe. Be mindful of the measurement required by the recipe and choose the right spoon to get a good result.