The chefs' secret to measuring pasta without scales: simple and practical

Pasta, one of the most versatile and loved foods in the world, often has its origins associated with China, where it is believed to have been invented during the Han dynasty, around the century III a. W. However, noodles gained global popularity through the silk routes, reaching different cultures.

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Meanwhile, in Italy, the country best known for its pasta varieties, pasta has become a fundamental part of gastronomy, giving rise to emblematic dishes such as spaghetti Bolognese and lasagna. In Japan, udon and soba noodles enjoy prominence, while in India, the use of pasta is evident in dishes like biryani.

But did you know that there is a simple and practical way to measure the right amount of pasta for each meal, without needing a scale or a special measurer? Well, the most renowned chefs in the world use a utensil that you probably have at home: a plastic bottle.

In other words, a simple bottle of refrigerator or water can be the solution to avoid wasting or missing pasta when serving. Want to know how this genius trick works? So check out the step-by-step instructions and tips from kitchen professionals below:

How to use the bottle to measure pasta?

To use the bottle as a pasta measurer, you will need an empty, clean plastic bottle and long-type dry pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. The secret is in the bottle's neck, which is the ideal size to measure an individual portion of pasta.

• Cut the neck of the bottle with scissors or a knife, discarding the rest of the bottle. You will only need the top part, where the lid is.
• Place the dry pasta inside the neck of the bottle until it fits snugly. This is the amount of pasta for one person. If you are cooking for more people, just repeat the process and multiply by the number of people. For example, if you are cooking for four people, you will need four jars full of pasta.
• If you want to adjust the quantity depending on your appetite or side dishes, you can add a little more or a little less pasta to the neck.

Other ways to measure pasta without a scale

If you don't have a plastic bottle on hand, don't worry. There are other ways to measure pasta without scales, using objects that you should also have at home. See some of them:

• To measure spaghetti, you can use a bottle cap. The diameter of the lid corresponds to around 100 grams of spaghetti, which is a very generous portion for one person.
• To measure short-type pasta, like fusilli or penne, you can use cups of water. A full cup of raw pasta equals about 40 grams, which is a moderate portion for one person.

Why is measuring important?

Measuring pasta is important for several reasons. Firstly, because it helps to avoid food waste, which is an environmental and social problem. Second, because it helps control portions and maintain a healthy diet. food balanced, without exaggerations or deficiencies. And, finally, because it helps you plan meals better and harmonize ingredients and flavors.

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