Understanding Tablespoons and Cornstarch
Before we dive into the weight of a tablespoon of cornstarch, let’s understand what exactly a tablespoon is and what cornstarch is used for in the culinary world.
- A tablespoon is a unit of measurement commonly used in cooking and baking. It is equivalent to 3 teaspoons or approximately 15 milliliters.
- Cornstarch, also known as corn flour, is a fine white powder extracted from corn kernels. It’s commonly used as a thickening agent in gravies, sauces, soups, and desserts.
Weighing a Tablespoon of Cornstarch
To determine the weight of a tablespoon of cornstarch, we need to consider its density. Density is the measurement of how much mass an object has in a given volume. The density of cornstarch is approximately 120 grams per cup.
Since a tablespoon is approximately 1/16th of a cup, we can calculate the weight of a tablespoon of cornstarch as follows:
(Density of cornstarch) x (Volume of a tablespoon) = Weight of a tablespoon of cornstarch
Inserting the known values into the equation:
(120 g/cup) x (1/16 cup) = 7.5 grams (rounded to the nearest gram)
So, there you have it – a tablespoon of cornstarch weighs approximately 7.5 grams. This information can be helpful in ensuring accurate measurements when following recipes or adjusting the consistency of your dishes. Remember, cooking is a delicate balance of flavors and proportions, so knowing the weight of ingredients can make a significant difference.
Now that you know how much a tablespoon of cornstarch weighs, you can confidently incorporate this knowledge into your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!