What are some useful conversion equivalents (such as 1 cup = 240 mL, 1 tablespoon = 15 mL, 1 ounce = 28.35 g, etc.) that help when you need to switch between volume and weight measurements in the kitchen?

Question

Get the most useful conversion equivalents for your kitchen. Learn the key numbers that will help you switch between volume and weight with ease.

Answer 1

Common kitchen conversion equivalents include 1 cup = 240 mL, 1 tablespoon = 15 mL, 1 teaspoon = 5 mL, 1 ounce = 28.35 grams, and 1 pound = 454 grams. These conversions are essential for accurately following recipes and adjusting ingredient quantities.

Detailed Explanation:

Understanding kitchen conversions is crucial for successful cooking and baking, especially when recipes use different measurement systems (e.g., metric vs. imperial). Here's a breakdown of some of the most useful equivalents:

1. Volume Conversions:
2. 1 cup = 240 mL (approximately)
3. 1/2 cup = 120 mL (approximately)
4. 1/4 cup = 60 mL (approximately)
5. 1 tablespoon (tbsp) = 15 mL
6. 1 teaspoon (tsp) = 5 mL
7. 3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon
8. 1 fluid ounce = 30 mL (approximately)
9. 1 pint = 2 cups = 473 mL (approximately)
10. 1 quart = 4 cups = 946 mL (approximately)
11. 1 gallon = 4 quarts = 3.78 liters (approximately)
12. Weight Conversions:
13. 1 ounce (oz) = 28.35 grams (g)
14. 1 pound (lb) = 16 ounces = 454 grams
15. 1 kilogram (kg) = 1000 grams = 2.2 pounds (approximately)
16. Important Considerations:
17. Dry vs. Liquid Ounces: Note that fluid ounces (volume) are different from ounces (weight).
18. Ingredient Density: Weight-to-volume conversions can vary significantly depending on the ingredient. For example, 1 cup of flour weighs differently than 1 cup of sugar. For precise baking, it's best to use weight measurements when available.
19. Approximations: Many of these conversions are approximations. For critical measurements, especially in baking, using a kitchen scale is highly recommended for accuracy.

Pro Tip:

Keep a printed conversion chart handy in your kitchen or save a reliable conversion app on your phone. This will save you time and reduce errors when adapting recipes or working with unfamiliar units.