In many recipes, outside of baking, measurements are often more guideline than rule. The well-known phrase “salt to taste” is an excellent example. However, there are a handful of measurements that a first-timer could find confusing: A dollop of jam; a glug of oil; a pinch of this; a pat of that. What is the definition of a glug of cider?
When watching a well-seasoned cook in their comfort zone, it can feel like learning a new language. Flour, sugar, and oil go flying, and the end result is almost always consistent. How can a newcomer decipher the unanticipated kitchen lingo? A pinch, a sprinkle, and other old standbys can start to feel intuitive over time. To start keeping up with kitchen dialect, save or bookmark this article for quick reference the next time you’re whipping up a new recipe, especially if it’s from a “just a little of this and that” cook.
How Much is a Glug of Oil and Other Measurement Savvy
A Handful
A handful is ⅓ to ½ of a cup.
A Splash
A splash is about ½ teaspoon.
A Drizzle
A drizzle is more than a splash and less than a glug.
A Pat of Butter
A pat of butter is ½ tablespoon.
A Schmear
A schmear is a heaping knifeful.
A Schmear
A schmear is a heaping knifeful.
A Dollop
A dollop is a heaping tablespoon.
A Glug of oil or A Glug of cider
About 2 tablespoons. That is, the amount required to coat a pan, or until the bottle audibly glugs.
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