Measuring spoons or measuring cups are generally considered an important tool in the kitchen, especially for measuring the volume of liquids. Luckily, if you don't have one of these tools, there are some simple ways to determine the amount of fluid you need.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Estimating by Comparing Sizes
Step 1. Use objects as references
If you're cornered and can't find a measuring tool, visualizing an object as a reference will help a little. Here are some good references to keep in mind:
- A teaspoon is about the size of a fingertip
- One tablespoon is about the size of an ice cube
- 1/4 measuring spoon is about the size of a large egg
- 1/2 measuring spoon about the size of a tennis ball
- One full measuring spoon is about the size of a baseball, apple, or hand.
Step 2. Determine the correct container to pour the liquid into
Ideally, you can use your hands because they can be cupped in a circle. However, this method may not be suitable for sticky liquids. Try to choose a transparent container that can help you visualize your reference object in it.
For example, if you're preparing 1/4 teaspoon of liquid, a tall glass that can hold eggs might help. A wider glass may be more suitable for measuring 1/2 teaspoon or 1 full measuring spoon
Step 3. Place the container on a flat surface and lower your body until your eyes are level with the container
That way, you can clearly see the amount of liquid being poured. Pour the liquid into the container slowly.
- When you feel the amount is correct, stop and compare the size of the liquid with the reference object.
- Adjust the amount in the container if necessary.
Step 4. Pay attention to the amount of liquid in the container then remember carefully
Because it can be used as a reference, this number will make it easier for you to estimate again at a later date. Using the same container again to measure out a certain amount (e.g. another tall glass to measure 1/4 cup) will also help.
Method 2 of 3: Using Kitchen Scales
Step 1. Use a kitchen scale to measure the exact amount of liquid
In general, you can weigh liquids with a regular kitchen scale (with the density of water as a reference).
- Most liquids, such as milk and citrus juices, have the same density as water. However, keep in mind that there are some liquids that have a significantly greater density than water (such as honey or syrup) and as a result the results of measuring liquids with a balance will be inaccurate.
- For more accurate measurement results, some kitchen scales have different liquid options, such as milk, so they can calculate the volume of liquid based on its density. If you have a scale like this, be sure to choose the right type of liquid.
Step 2. Calculate the weight of the liquid
If you're using a regular scale, you'll need to calculate the exact weight of the liquid for the liquid. It's a good idea to remember that 1 ml of water is equivalent to 1 gram.
Use this ratio as the primary standard when measuring liquids. For example, if you need 1/2 cup of water, it should weigh 125 grams
Step 3. Choose a container or glass to measure the liquid
Place the container on the scale, making sure it is in the middle.
Don't add anything to the container beforehand. Make sure the container is completely empty at this stage as you will be setting the scales and taking the weight of the container out of the measurement
Step 4. Calibrate the scale to eliminate the weight of the container in the measurement
Look for a button labeled "tare" or "zero" on the scale.
Once this button is pressed, the weight of the container should change to zero on the scale. This step will ensure the liquid can be measured accurately
Step 5. Pour the liquid into the container
Pour slowly, stopping every now and then to look at the weight on the scale. Stop pouring once the display on the scale shows the weight or volume you need. If you pour more liquid than necessary, pour the excess into the sink.
Step 6. Measure out any other liquid you will need in the recipe
If you are using a regular scale and plan to mix the liquids together, you can measure them all at once in the same container. Leave the container on the scale and then calculate the new amount you need by adding a second amount of liquid. Pour the next liquid into the container until you get the final amount just right.
- Keep in mind that if you are using a kitchen scale that provides different liquid measurement options, you will have to change the scale settings and weigh the next liquid from scratch.
- If you're weighing water and then want to weigh the milk, for example, set the water container aside, select the milk on the scale and re-weigh from the beginning with the other container.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Tablespoon and a Teaspoon
Step 1. Determine how many tablespoons you need
An easy way to do this is to remember that 1 measuring spoon equals 16 tablespoons. You can use this simple reference to calculate how many tablespoons you will need.
For example, if you need 1/2 teaspoon of liquid, you need 8 tablespoons of liquid
Step 2. Use a tablespoon to measure out the liquid you need
Measure the liquid over the top of the container so it doesn't fall apart. When you add the liquid to the tablespoon, do it slowly so that it doesn't spill over into the container.
Then transfer the liquid from the tablespoon into the container and repeat until you get the amount you need
Step 3. Use a teaspoon to add the right volume of liquid
Some recipes may require ingredients in more precise sizes. In this case, you can use a teaspoon to get the exact amount you need.
One teaspoon is equivalent to about 5 ml of liquid
Step 4. Keep in mind the amount of liquid in the container
This will help you develop your ability to estimate the amount of fluid.
If you are using a glass or plastic container, it may be a good idea to mark the amount of liquid in the container with a marker. That way, you'll be measuring out the liquid more quickly at a later date. For example, if you've measured out 1/4 teaspoon (4 tablespoons) of liquid, you can put "1/4" on the container
Tips
- If you're using an old recipe that uses an imperial measuring spoon as a reference, you'll need to adjust the amount of liquid as the imperial measuring spoon is larger than the standard measuring spoon. In this case, one measuring spoon would equate to 19 tablespoons instead of 16.
- Recipes from other countries may also use a different unit of measure, such as the ounce in the United States.
- If all the ingredients in the recipe are measured using a measuring spoon, such as 2 tablespoons flour, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon milk, you can use a regular glass or cup! For recipes that use several or different amounts of the same unit of measure, you can use one container when measuring all of them. The only risk is that you will get a larger or less number of dishes.
