Why does my flour sifter have cup markings
I have an inexpensive flour sifter that just has wire mesh and a little hand-crank (like one of these 1, 2.)
It has cup markings on the side ("one cup," "two cups").
This is probably a silly question, but why? Doesn't the flour just start pouring through the wire mesh as soon as you start adding it, thereby making the markings useless?
Best Answer
Only a tiny amount of flour will fall through the grating before you start actively sifting; there is a reason there is an agitator and crank to help force the flour through. I am sure the idea was that you could use the sifter as a measuring cup.
Of course, since most sifters are opaque and the markings are on the outside, it is difficult to get a good measurement.
In practice, these markings are essentially useless, and you are far better off using a proper measuring cup, or even better, a scale.
Personally, I am of the opinion that sifters are hard to clean, not useful for anything else, and in general a pain. I use a simple sieve when I need to sift.
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Quick Answer about "Why does my flour sifter have cup markings"
A basic crank-style sifter is a favorite among bakers, and this 3-cup sifter shows exactly why that is. The sifter is tough enough to handle different types of flour and other coarse ingredients, like bran or almond meal. The canister has measurement markings engraved into the metal to read on the inside of the sifter.What is the difference between a flour sifter and a sieve?
A sieve\u2014also known as a sifter\u2014is typically a basket made of a metal fine-mesh weave with a handle attached. Its job is to aerate and separate dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, which will lead to a lighter and more tender crumb in baked goods.How do you use a flour sifter?
Flour sifter: A flour sifter is a kitchen device that looks like a cup with a handle and a mesh strainer on the bottom. Some sifters have mechanical blades that help push the flour through the mesh, while others don't.What does a flour sifter look like?
The most common design options for a sifter handle are either crank or squeeze style. Crank handles tend to be a bit more reliable since they're less likely to get stuck. And they're ideal for bakers that might have arthritis or strength issues with their hands.Why You Should Sift Flour
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