What is a wooden spoon used for in the kitchen?
Wooden spoons are the Swiss Army knives of the kitchen. They can be used to muddle cocktails, stir a pot, mix both wet and dry ingredients, and scoop everything from lightly whipped cream to thick brownie batter.
Is it good to use wooden spoons for cooking?
Wooden spoons don’t quickly heat to scalding temperatures, chemically react with acidic foods, or scratch pots and bowls, as their metal counterparts do. They don’t melt or leach chemicals or strange tastes into hot foods as plastic does. A wooden spoon can be used to stir any dish in any type of vessel.
Are wooden spoons unsanitary?
Wooden utensils are porous and tend to absorb water Absorption of water is a key factor in hygiene and the prevention of bacterial growth. The less water is available, the less likely bacteria will grow and survive. Wood also retains flavours and odours from foods.
What is wrong with wooden spoons?
When used in sauces and soups, wooden spoons tend to retain stains. That’s why many people worry about these spoons harboring bacteria and contaminating food. But as with all other types of spoons, wooden ones will be a breeding ground for bacteria when they aren’t thoroughly cleaned.
Are wooden spoons dishwasher safe?
Wooden utensils, bowls, cutting boards, etc., should never go into your dishwasher. When wood is exposed to such high heat and moisture for a long washing cycle, it can warp, splinter and eventually break. Instead, wash wood items by hand using warm, soapy water and dry them with a towel right away.
When should you throw away wooden spoons?
Wooden spoons can harbor bacteria as the years go on which can then add bacteria to your food. You can tell that it’s time to replace your wooden spoon when the wood becomes soft, dark or the wood is cracking. These are indications that the wood is rotting from the bacteria covering it.
Can you use wooden spoons with raw meat?
Avoid using wood utensils on raw meat. Due to the nature of wood, there can be small crevices and cracks in your utensils that can harbor bacteria from raw meats. Instead use a heat proof silicone spatula that would be more sanitary for raw meats.
Can you use a wooden spoon in boiling water?
The Wooden Spoon Trick Works in Two Ways When something hydrophobic (i.e. unable to absorb water) punctures the surface of a bubble, it subsides. A dry wooden spoon destabilizes the bubbles when they come into contact with its water-repelling surface. This makes the boiling water retreat.
Why do chefs not use wooden spoons?
Non-wooden spoons (metal spoons especially) are far more likely to scratch up the bottoms and sides of your pots and pans. For non-stick surfaces this is extremely problematic as food will start to stick to the bottom, making it more difficult to cook on the pans and clean them afterwards.
How do you sanitize wooden spoons?
Sanitize with hydrogen peroxide Lastly, if you’re concerned about bacteria festering, you can sanitize your spoons by washing them with soap and water. Afterwards, sprinkle on some hydrogen peroxide, and let dry. Make sure to wash them again before use.
What can I do with old wooden spoons?
- More repurposing tips.
- Ask Yourself if your old wooden spoons can be saved.
- Turn your old wooden spoons into garden markers:
- As a garden helper:
- Give them to your children:
- Use them in a DIY bird feeder:
- Cabinet Deterrent:
- Use the handle as a paint stirrer:
How do you make wooden spoons food safe?
To keep your wooden spoons in the best shape possible, follow these tips:
- Hand-wash wooden utensils with hot water and mild dish soap.
- If your wooden spoons or cutting boards start to look or feel dry or fuzzy, periodically rub them with mineral oil or a longer lasting beeswax conditioner like our Bowl and Board Rub.