Mixing bowls are essential in every kitchen, no matter your cooking. You might need them for whisking up a pancake batter or whipping a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Still, they’re also great for tossing salads, holding bread crumbs while frying fish or chicken, mixing a blend for meatloaf, or marinating roasted potatoes.
Use as a Serving Bowl
Whether you’re serving salad or dessert, plastic mixing bowls are an easy way to pack foods that won’t absorb flavors. It can also help you keep things organized by putting different dishes in a designated spot.
For example, one mixing bowl might be used for garlic-y dishes and another for hearty sauces. Another can be a dedicated dessert bowl.
Smaller mixing bowls are ideal for whisking egg whites or beating a few eggs, while larger ones make a large batch of batter or tossing a salad serving a group.
Glass is a great choice for mixing because it doesn’t stain or transfer tastes, but it’s heavier than plastic and can break easily when dropped. Tempered glass is more durable and can be used in the oven, but it’s still less sturdy than stainless steel or aluminum.
Use as a Storage Container
Having the right storage containers is one of the most important kitchen tools, making storing and organizing food much easier. It can be much less stressful to open a cabinet or drawer and find exactly what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re stirring ingredients, marinating meat, or storing leftovers, it’s essential to have a set of bowls that are sturdy, easy to clean, and suited to your needs.
Mixing bowls come in various materials, including stainless steel, glass, ceramic, and plastic. Some of these options are better for certain purposes than others. For instance, stainless steel is a good choice for professional bakers and cooks because it doesn’t warp.
Pack for a Picnic
A good plastic mixing bowl is a must-have, especially if you want to make your food on the go. A set of the good kind can come in handy for everything from soups and stews to fruity smoothies, plus they’re durable enough to handle the rigors of camping or beaching it out.
For the more adventurous cook, a set of stainless steel bowls is the way to go if you’re into your kitchen gadgets and gizmos. And while at it, why not pick up a set of colorful silicone food storage wares? They are lightweight, durable, and packable — not to mention super cute. The best part is you can reuse them time and again! You’ll also find an assortment of trivets, coasters, and other novelty accessories in the same line.
Use as a Kneading Bowl
If you like to knead your dough, you’ll want to have a large mixing bowl. It’s also helpful to have one with high sides to keep your ingredients firmly in place as you mix.
This set of three plastic bowls has a non-slip base that keeps them stable on any kitchen surface, and they feature a pouring spout for easy transfer. They also stack neatly, so they occupy minimal space in your cupboards.
Use as a Storage Container
Whether proofing dough, marinating foods, tossing salads, or storing leftovers, mixing bowls are an essential kitchen tool. They come in a variety of materials and sizes to suit your needs.
Stainless steel is a great choice for mixing, as it’s sturdy and resistant to stains and odors. But if you’re looking for a more natural look, wooden, bamboo, or cork bowls can add a rustic touch to your tabletop.
They are often made from polypropylene, which is microwave safe and less expensive than glass or ceramic. Some are also oven safe, so you’ll be able to use them on the stovetop.
