How much is 1 tbsp in Australia?

Decoding the Aussie Tablespoon: Why 1 tbsp Isn’t Always 15ml

Baking a pavlova? Whipping up a batch of lamingtons? If you’re following an Australian recipe, you might encounter a crucial difference that could impact your culinary success: the size of a tablespoon.

While internationally, a tablespoon (tbsp) is generally accepted as 15 milliliters (ml), in Australia, a standard tablespoon measures 20ml. This seemingly small difference can significantly alter the outcome of your recipe, especially in baking where precise measurements are key.

Imagine following a cake recipe that calls for 2 tablespoons of oil. Using a standard 15ml tablespoon would result in 30ml of oil, whereas an Australian 20ml tablespoon would yield 40ml – a 10ml discrepancy that could lead to a dense, oily, or otherwise disappointing result.

The confusion arises from the variation in household measuring spoons. While the officially defined Australian tablespoon is 20ml, many households use smaller tablespoons, often falling within the 10-15ml range. This variation further complicates matters, highlighting the importance of careful consideration when cooking and baking.

So, how much is 1 tbsp in Australia? The short answer is: it depends.

• Officially: 20ml
• In practice: Potentially anywhere between 10ml and 20ml, depending on the utensil used.

To avoid any misinterpretations and guarantee consistent results, Australian recipes often provide measurements in milliliters (ml) alongside tablespoon measurements. Prioritizing the milliliter measurement is always the safest bet. If a recipe only uses tablespoons, consider investing in a set of accurate measuring spoons or using a measuring jug to achieve the correct milliliter quantity.

Understanding this distinction between the official Australian tablespoon and the variability of household spoons is vital for Australian cooks and bakers. By paying attention to the details and prioritizing milliliter measurements, you can confidently create delicious and perfectly proportioned dishes, every time.