Checklist: Understanding Recipes and Measurements
Recipe Preparation
Read the entire recipe at least once before starting
Check that you have all required ingredients
Check that you have all necessary equipment
Understand the total time needed (prep time + cooking time)
Identify any steps that require advance preparation
Prepare mise en place (measure and organize all ingredients)
Clear adequate counter space for working
Preheat oven/prepare equipment if needed
Recipe Terminology Understanding
Identify any unfamiliar cooking methods in the recipe
Look up definitions of any unfamiliar terms
Understand the difference between techniques (e.g., dice vs. mince)
Recognize doneness indicators (e.g., “until golden brown”)
Understand timing clues (e.g., “until tender”)
Measurement Tools
Gather appropriate measuring tools:
Measuring cups for dry ingredients
Measuring cups for liquid ingredients
Measuring spoons
Kitchen scale (if using weight measurements)
Thermometer (if needed for doneness)
Ensure measuring tools are clean and dry
Check that measuring tools are accurate (especially scales)
Measurement Techniques
For flour: Spoon into measuring cup, level with knife
For sugar: Scoop and level
For brown sugar: Pack firmly into measuring cup
For liquids: Place on flat surface, read at eye level
For sticky ingredients: Spray measuring tool with oil first
For herbs: Loosely pack leaves unless specified otherwise
For spices: Level with straight edge
Recipe Scaling
Determine desired yield (how many servings needed)
Calculate scaling factor (desired yield Ă· original yield)
Multiply all ingredients by scaling factor
Adjust cooking vessel size as needed
Note that cooking times may need adjustment
Be cautious with scaling spices and leavening agents
Recipe Adaptation
Identify any ingredients you need to substitute
Research appropriate substitution ratios
Consider how substitutions will affect flavor and texture
Note any dietary restrictions that require adaptations
Adjust cooking methods if necessary for equipment limitations
Make notes on the recipe for future reference
Temperature Conversions
Convert oven temperatures if needed:
Fahrenheit to Celsius: (°F - 32) × 5/9 = °C
Celsius to Fahrenheit: (°C × 9/5) + 32 = °F
Understand equivalent oven settings (e.g., moderate, hot)
Check if your oven runs hot or cold and adjust accordingly
Recipe Navigation
Follow the order of operations as written
Set timers for cooking steps
Taste and adjust seasonings when safe to do so
Make notes directly on the recipe for future reference
Record any modifications made and their results