Have you ever tried to serve soup with a flimsy ladle that just couldn’t hold enough? Or worse, one that dripped all over the counter, creating a sticky mess? Choosing the right soup ladle can be surprisingly tricky. There are so many shapes, sizes, and materials, it’s easy to feel lost in the kitchenware aisle.
Finding the perfect soup ladle is important. A good ladle makes serving soup, chili, or stew easy and neat. A bad one can lead to spills, uneven portions, and frustration. America’s Test Kitchen is known for their thorough testing. They take the guesswork out of cooking and selecting the best tools. But even with their recommendations, understanding the “why” behind their choices can make you a smarter shopper.
In this blog post, we will break down America’s Test Kitchen’s soup ladle recommendations. We’ll explain what makes a great ladle and why certain features matter. You’ll learn about the materials, shapes, and sizes that perform best. By the end, you’ll be confident in choosing a soup ladle that will last for years and make your soup nights much smoother. Let’s dive in and find the perfect ladle for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Soup Ladle America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Soup Ladle America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Latin Ladles: Fabulous Soups and Stews from the King of Nuevo Latino Cuisine
Rating: 8.7/10
Craving vibrant flavors and comforting bowls? “Latin Ladles: Fabulous Soups and Stews from the King of Nuevo Latino Cuisine” brings the heat and heart of Latin American cooking right to your kitchen. This cookbook is packed with delicious recipes from a master chef, perfect for warming up on a chilly night or adding a spark to your next meal. You’ll discover exciting new takes on classic soups and stews, all while exploring the diverse culinary landscape of Latin America. This copy is a used book in good condition, ready to inspire your next culinary adventure.
What We Like:
- The recipes are easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- The book features a wide variety of soups and stews, representing different Latin American countries.
- Ingredients are often easy to find in most grocery stores.
- The “Nuevo Latino” twist adds a modern and exciting element to traditional dishes.
- Buying a used copy is a budget-friendly way to expand your cookbook collection.
- The book is in good condition, so you can start cooking right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some of the more complex recipes might take some time to prepare.
- Since it is a used book, there might be slight signs of wear and tear.
- Availability of specific ingredients may vary depending on your location.
If you are looking for a cookbook with flavorful recipes, “Latin Ladles” is a great choice. Grab this used copy in good condition and start exploring the world of Nuevo Latino cuisine today!
2. Zulay Kitchen Premium Soup Ladle – 12″ Stainless Steel with Non-Slip Silicone Handle
Rating: 8.9/10
The Zulay Kitchen Premium Soup Ladle is a durable and reliable tool for anyone who loves making soups, stews, or saucy dishes. This 12-inch ladle features a sturdy stainless steel construction and a comfortable, non-slip silicone handle. It is designed to make scooping and serving your favorite recipes easy and efficient.
What We Like:
- The ladle is made with durable, BPA-free stainless steel, so it will last a long time.
- The silicone handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. It also prevents heat transfer.
- The 12-inch size is perfect for scooping from deep pots. It makes serving easier.
- The ladle is easy to clean. You can wash it by hand or put it in the dishwasher.
- It has a hanging hole for easy storage.
- Zulay Kitchen offers a lifetime guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stainless steel is durable, some might prefer a lighter material for easier handling, especially when serving large quantities.
- The handle, while comfortable, is only available in one color. More color options would be nice.
Overall, the Zulay Kitchen Premium Soup Ladle is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s a durable, versatile, and easy-to-use tool that will make serving soups and sauces a breeze.
3. EIKS 2 Pack Plastic Soup Ladle Serving Spoon for Serving Cooking Mixing Stews Noodles Rice Soup – 7.5 inch Long
Rating: 8.5/10
The EIKS 2 Pack Plastic Soup Ladle Serving Spoon is a great addition to any kitchen. These 7.5-inch ladles make serving soup, stews, and more a breeze. You get two ladles in each pack, so you always have a spare. They are designed to be useful for both cooking and serving.
What We Like:
- Versatile Kitchen Duo: You get two ladles, great for serving all kinds of liquids and semi-solids.
- Durable & Safe Material: The PP plastic is strong and won’t scratch your pots and pans.
- Convenient & Practical Design: The grainy back lets you grind food, and the handle is easy to grip.
- Easy to Store & Clean: Hang them up with the hole or toss them in the dishwasher.
- Complementary Tool for Every Chef: These ladles are useful for serving, cooking, and mixing.
What Could Be Improved:
- Plastic Material: While durable, some may prefer ladles made of stainless steel for a more premium feel.
- Limited Heat Resistance: Extended exposure to very high heat might cause warping over time.
Overall, the EIKS 2 Pack Plastic Soup Ladles are a practical and affordable choice for any home cook. They make serving and cooking easier and cleanup is a snap.
4. Zulay Kitchen Soup Ladle – Ergonomic
Rating: 8.7/10
The Zulay Kitchen Soup Ladle is a must-have tool for any kitchen. This black ladle is designed to make serving soups, chili, gravy, and more, easy and mess-free. With its heat-resistant nylon construction and ergonomic design, it is built to last. Plus, Zulay Kitchen backs it with a lifetime guarantee.
What We Like:
- The ladle has a lifetime guarantee from Zulay Kitchen.
- It holds 4 oz and has a pour spout for easy, mess-free serving.
- The ergonomic handle is comfortable for both left and right-handed users.
- It is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- The ladle is made of durable, BPA-free nylon that can withstand high temperatures.
- It is safe to use on non-stick, glass, and enamel cookware.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4 oz capacity might be small for serving large portions.
- The black color option may not appeal to everyone.
In conclusion, the Zulay Kitchen Soup Ladle is a durable and versatile tool that will make serving your favorite dishes easier. It is a worthwhile addition to any kitchen, especially with its lifetime guarantee.
5. Zulay Kitchen Stainless Steel Cooking Utensil – Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensil
Rating: 9.1/10
The Zulay Kitchen Stainless Steel Soup Ladle is a great addition to any kitchen. This 13-inch ladle is made of durable stainless steel. It’s perfect for scooping soup, stew, chili, and more. The elegant mirror finish adds a touch of class to your cooking experience.
What We Like:
- The heavy-duty 201 stainless steel is strong and rust-resistant.
- The polished mirror finish looks great in any kitchen.
- The long handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- The ladle head is perfect for reaching into deep pots and pans.
- It’s easy to clean in the dishwasher or by hand.
- The built-in hole makes storage simple.
- It can be used for a variety of purposes.
- Zulay Kitchen offers a lifetime guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a thicker handle for even more comfort.
- While durable, stainless steel can still scratch if not properly cared for.
Overall, the Zulay Kitchen Stainless Steel Soup Ladle is a fantastic and versatile tool. Its durability and easy cleanup, backed by Zulay’s guarantee, make it a worthwhile investment for any home cook.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Soup Ladle – America’s Test Kitchen Style
Finding the perfect soup ladle can be tricky. You want one that’s durable, easy to use, and gets the job done without making a mess. America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) puts kitchen tools through rigorous testing, so understanding their approach can help you pick the best ladle for your needs. This guide breaks down what to look for in a great soup ladle, inspired by ATK’s thorough methods.
Key Features to Look For
What makes a soup ladle stand out? Consider these important features:
- Bowl Shape and Size: The bowl’s shape determines how easily you can scoop and pour. A slightly angled or oval bowl can be better for getting into corners of pots. The size should be appropriate for your common uses. A smaller ladle is good for small portions, while a larger one is better for serving a crowd.
- Handle Length and Comfort: The handle needs to be long enough to keep your hand away from heat. It should also be comfortable to hold for extended periods. Look for ergonomic designs and non-slip grips.
- Pouring Spout: A well-designed pouring spout allows for smooth and controlled pouring, minimizing spills.
- Balance: A well-balanced ladle feels comfortable in your hand and is less likely to tip over when filled.
- Hanging Hole: A hanging hole lets you store the ladle easily on a hook.
Important Materials
The material of your soup ladle affects its durability, heat resistance, and how it interacts with food.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice because it’s durable, rust-resistant, and doesn’t react with acidic foods. It’s also easy to clean.
- Silicone: Silicone ladles are heat-resistant and gentle on nonstick cookware. They are also easy to clean. However, some silicone ladles may stain or absorb odors over time.
- Nylon: Nylon ladles are heat-resistant and safe for nonstick cookware. They are not as durable as stainless steel but are a good budget-friendly option.
- Wood: Wood ladles are beautiful and comfortable to hold. However, they can absorb odors and stains, and they require more care to clean. They are also not as heat resistant.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can make a ladle great or terrible.
- Construction: A sturdy, one-piece construction is more durable than a ladle with a handle that’s attached separately. Look for smooth, seamless designs.
- Heat Resistance: The ladle should be able to withstand high temperatures without melting or warping.
- Durability: The ladle should be able to withstand regular use and washing without breaking or bending.
- Dishwasher Safety: A dishwasher-safe ladle is easier to clean and maintain.
- Poorly Attached Handle: A handle that is not securely attached can break easily.
- Thin or Flexible Material: A ladle made from thin or flexible material may bend or warp under heat or pressure.
- Rough Edges: Rough edges on the bowl or handle can be uncomfortable to use and may scratch cookware.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your soup ladle will influence your choice.
- Everyday Cooking: For everyday use, a stainless steel or silicone ladle with a comfortable handle and a good pouring spout is a solid choice.
- Serving: For serving soup at a dinner party, consider a more elegant ladle with a longer handle.
- Nonstick Cookware: If you use nonstick cookware, choose a silicone or nylon ladle to avoid scratching the surface.
- Large Batch Cooking: For making large batches of soup, a larger ladle with a sturdy handle is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main features I should look for in a soup ladle?
A: Look for a comfortable handle, a good bowl shape and size, and a pouring spout. Consider the material and its heat resistance.
Q: Is stainless steel a good material for a soup ladle?
A: Yes! Stainless steel is durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. It’s a great all-around choice.
Q: Are silicone ladles safe for nonstick cookware?
A: Yes, silicone ladles are safe for nonstick cookware because they won’t scratch the surface.
Q: How do I clean a wooden soup ladle?
A: Wash wooden ladles by hand with mild soap and water. Dry them thoroughly to prevent cracking.
Q: What size ladle should I buy?
A: The size depends on your needs. A smaller ladle is good for individual servings, while a larger one is better for serving a crowd.
Q: Is it important for a soup ladle to be dishwasher safe?
A: Dishwasher safety makes cleaning easier, but it’s not essential. Hand-washing is fine too.
Q: What does America’s Test Kitchen look for in a good soup ladle?
A: ATK tests ladles for durability, heat resistance, comfort, and ease of use. They look for ladles that are well-balanced and pour cleanly.
Q: Can a soup ladle be used for other things besides soup?
A: Yes! You can use a soup ladle for serving sauces, stews, chili, and other liquids.
Q: How can I tell if a soup ladle is high quality?
A: Look for a sturdy construction, a comfortable handle, and a well-designed bowl. The material should be durable and heat resistant.
Q: What if my soup ladle starts to stain?
A: Staining is more common with silicone and wooden ladles. Try soaking the ladle in a solution of baking soda and water. For wooden ladles, you can also try rubbing them with lemon juice.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!