How Precisely Do You Measure Spices?
Tuesday February 3, 2009
When my mother-in-law introduced me to Moroccan cooking, she was very amused at my request that she put the spices into her hand so I could measure them before she threw them into the pot. That's because most Moroccan cooks don't precisely measure their spices. "Measuring" is done by eye and experience, and not with standard measuring spoons.
Fifteen years later, I rarely use precise measures for everyday cooking, particularly Moroccan dishes such as Lamb Tagine with Peas and Artichokes. If I'm following an unfamiliar or written recipe, I tend to use a regular teaspoon to approximate my spices rather than shake them into the pot.
How about you? Do you always measure spices accurately? Share your answer on the poll below.
Photo © Christine Benlafquih
Comments
Great poll, Christine. I love Moroccan food, so I guess I’ll be visiting more often now.
Christine,
I said I don’t measure, but in fact I always measure – I just don’t use a measuring spoon. When I pour a portion of dried thyme or ground cumin in my palm I know how much that is and can even convert it to measuring spoons. Even if I add the flavoring directly to the tagine or daube I know how much that translates to.
The difference between me and those who measure first is I add what’s needed and happen to know (more or less) how much that is.
I measure…with my taste buds! But even if I make a recipe for the first time, it’s rare that I actually get out my measuring spoon; I’ll just eyeball it.
I always play a little fast and loose with spice measurements, especially when it’s something I’ve made a million times before! But I did the same exact thing as you when I was learning how to make my husband’s favorite recipes. I asked my grandmother-in-law to pour the spices into her hand too!
I dont level off, but I do come close. I get nervous that the recipe wont turn out. As for the salt, I always do less and add more at the end if need be.
By the way, we really enjoy the recipes!
Hi Christine,
Haven’t gotten the chance to try your recipes yet but I am eager to. I do not measure spices because in my opinion, the relative spiciness of a dish is best monitored by the tastes of those who will eat it, not a cookbook author, dead or living relative.
Besides, I may want to taste the spice in my hand first to note its flavor if I am unfamiliar with it, or to sample its potency or freshness.
Thalla(h)