Kitchen Helper: Lady Ladle

The ladle is one of those kitchen tools we almost all have at home, yet rarely think about. But when the time comes, it’s simply irreplaceable – whether for serving soup, ladling out goulash, or scooping fruit compote.

The Main Task

The classic role of the ladle is to scoop liquids: soups, stews, sauces, or compotes. Thanks to its deep bowl shape, it allows you to transfer a good portion of liquid with a single scoop.

What Else Can It Do?

A ladle isn’t limited to soups and sauces. It’s surprisingly versatile:

• Pouring pancake batter – portion the batter evenly into the pan.

• Serving risotto or creamy dishes – its round shape helps scoop thicker foods neatly.

• Handling sweet toppings – compotes, fruit syrups, or chocolate sauces look more elegant when served with a ladle.

• Measuring – an average ladle holds about 100–150 ml of liquid, handy when you don’t have a measuring cup nearby.

• Basting – while cooking soups or stews, you can skim off excess fat or pour broth evenly over ingredients for better cooking.

Types of Ladles

• Metal ladles – durable and perfect for hot soups and goulash.

• Plastic or silicone ladles – gentler on pots, especially those with non-stick coatings.

• Small ladles – ideal for sauces and dessert toppings.

• Large ladles – perfect for stews and larger servings.

Did you know the ladle was once commonly used for pouring wine or beer in traditional inns? Old photos often show innkeepers using ladles to serve drinks straight from barrels. 🍷

👉 The ladle is much more than just a “soup spoon.” It’s a practical helper for serving, measuring, portioning, and even decorating dishes.

FAQ

Which type of ladle is best for everyday use?
A silicone or plastic ladle works best for most kitchens – it’s gentle on pots and easy to clean.

How do I clean a ladle properly?
Most can go in the dishwasher. For metal ladles, rinse them soon after cooking to avoid stains.

Can I use a ladle for desserts?
Absolutely! Small ladles are perfect for compotes, fruit sauces, or chocolate toppings.

How much liquid does a ladle hold?
Usually between 100–150 ml depending on its size – which makes it handy as a quick measuring tool.

Why are some ladles flat?
Flat ladles are designed for shallow pans and are especially useful for sauces.