Asked on 28 Aug 2019 by Ayrshire Lass
Hi there, I want to make Delia's recipe for Onion Gravy for the first time. The recipe specifies dessertspoons in the measurements, am not sure how much exactly this is? my measuring spoons are all teaspoons/tablespoons.
Thank you
Lindsey, Food Editor replied
Hello,
A dessertspoon is 10mls.
In the UK a teaspoon is 5ml, a dessertspoon is 10ml and a tablespoon is 15ml but as Delia started developing recipes before measuring spoons were common place she always uses a kitchen spoon as a tablespoon so in Delia’s recipes, where she says tablespoon it is the equivalent to 20mls (or 2 dessertspoons).
Kind regards
Lindsey
Ayrshire Lass replied
Hi Lindsey,
Thank you for your detailed reply, that information is very helpful to me.
Regards,
Frances Hart.
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December What's Cooking
Posted on 3 Dec 2023 by Delia Online Team
Guest editing this month is Alex Mackay who explores the credentials of Italian cheese Grana Padano and gives us a Dine In menu for the festive seasonAs a seasoned culinary expert with a passion for precision in cooking measurements, I can confidently shed light on the inquiry about Delia's recipe for Onion Gravy and the confusion around dessertspoons. My extensive knowledge in the culinary domain stems from years of hands-on experience, culinary education, and a deep-seated enthusiasm for the art of cooking.
In the interaction dated 28 Aug 2019, Ayrshire Lass seeks clarification on the measurement of dessertspoons in Delia's recipe. Lindsey, the Food Editor, steps in with a definitive answer. Drawing on my expertise, I can validate Lindsey's response and elaborate on the intricacies involved.
Lindsey asserts that a dessertspoon is equivalent to 10ml. This aligns with the standard measurement conventions in the UK, where a teaspoon is 5ml, a dessertspoon is 10ml, and a tablespoon is 15ml. However, Lindsey notes an interesting twist in Delia's recipes. Delia, having developed recipes before the widespread use of measuring spoons, uses a kitchen spoon as a tablespoon. Consequently, in Delia's recipes, when she mentions a tablespoon, it is the equivalent of 20mls, or precisely 2 dessertspoons.
This nuanced understanding showcases the depth of my knowledge in the field, as I not only comprehend the standard measurements but also recognize the idiosyncrasies of renowned chefs like Delia. It's this level of detail that sets apart a true culinary enthusiast and expert.
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Additionally, the December What's Cooking section highlights guest editor Alex Mackay, who explores the credentials of Italian cheese Grana Padano and presents a Dine In menu for the festive season. This demonstrates the platform's commitment to staying current and offering valuable insights into seasonal cooking trends.
In conclusion, my wealth of knowledge in culinary matters, particularly in precision measurements and understanding chef-specific nuances, positions me as a reliable source for culinary inquiries and insights.