What is tbsp?

A tablespoon (abbreviated as "tbsp" or sometimes "T") is a common unit of measurement in cooking that equals approximately 15 milliliters or 1/16 of a cup. It's one of the most frequently used measuring tools in American kitchens.

Historical Context

  • The tablespoon has been used for centuries as a measuring unit
  • Originally, it literally meant "the spoon used at the table" during medieval times
  • The standardized measurement we use today was established in the late 19th century

Important Details

  • 1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoons
  • 1 tablespoon = 15 milliliters
  • 16 tablespoons = 1 cup
  • 2 tablespoons = 1 fluid ounce

Common Uses

  • Measuring larger quantities of ingredients like:
    • Oil for sautéing
    • Butter for baking
    • Herbs and spices in larger dishes
    • Sauces and condiments

Tips for Measuring

  • Always use level tablespoons unless the recipe specifically calls for "heaping" or "rounded"
  • For sticky ingredients (like honey or molasses):
    1. Spray the spoon with cooking oil first
    2. The ingredient will slide right off
  • For butter: Look for the tablespoon markings on the wrapper of stick butter (1 stick = 8 tablespoons)

Digital Conversion

When typing recipes or notes:

  • tbsp = tablespoon
  • Tbs = tablespoon
  • T = tablespoon

Common Recipe Examples

  • "2 tbsp olive oil to sauté vegetables"
  • "1 tbsp vanilla extract in cookie dough"
  • "3 tbsp butter for making a roux"

Remember: Accuracy in measuring is crucial for successful cooking and baking. Using actual measuring spoons rather than regular eating spoons will give you much more consistent results!