Why should we switch to using only wooden spoons

Did you know that the wooden spoon was not used exclusively for serving food in Ancient Egypt? At that time, these spoons were also used for applying cosmetics and performing different rituals. In addition, they came in the most varied forms, such as that of a dog chasing a fish or that of a crouching cat. Unfortunately, nowadays wooden spoons have been replaced by metal, plastic or silicone ones, despite the many benefits they offer.

O incredible.club researched some details about this very common object and discovered some very interesting things. Today, we are going to share some of them with you.

Depending on the type of wood the spoon is made of, it can complement the flavor of the food, which is not the case with the plastic spoon. Woods from fruit trees and beech, for example, add a touch of sweetness to food; olive and oak usually leave a bitter taste because of the tannin, an element that usually enhances already seasoned foods.

Wooden objects tend to be very beautiful and pleasant to hold. Compared to metal, plastic or silicone spoons, wooden spoons are more malleable and generally more pleasant to the touch. Wooden utensils tend to have thicker handles and therefore are easier to hold. Some handmade spoons even have parts that adapt to the shape of the palm of the hand.

Wooden objects are very safe when cooking, especially when compared to metal materials (which can cause allergic reactions) and plastic – which release chemicals when they come into contact with heat. Also, metal and plastic spoons often have sharp or rough edges. That is, the wooden spoon does not melt like plastic and does not heat up like metal. It is therefore much safer.

Some people think that wooden spoons accumulate more bacteria than metal or plastic ones, which is not true. Germs don’t usually like wood, mainly because its natural properties kill microbes. It is worth noting that any material can accumulate bacteria if it is not washed properly.

Wood is a material directly related to traditions, something that does not happen with other materials. Wooden spoons are often passed down from generation to generation, something difficult to imagine with plastic or silicone spoons. According to Sicilian tradition, “no other spoon is powerful enough to ward off Satan”.

Wood is a material that contains signs of use, changes color, shape and texture. In addition, it “carries” the flavor of the served dish. By always preparing the same recipe with the same spoon, it will absorb the flavor of the meals. So maybe the old wooden spoon is your grandma’s “secret ingredient”.

A wooden spoon is usually much stronger than a plastic one. The handle of these spoons takes much longer to break and that’s why they are so good for cooking denser and tougher foods. Also, wood will not scratch pots and pans, and when used correctly, these pans can last a lifetime.

Wood is an organic and renewable resource. Therefore the wooden spoon is an ecologically correct object. The fact that they are not made with chemicals whose origin we do not know makes them highly recommended. A spoon or any other wooden kitchen utensil is usually handmade, therefore a tool whose manufacturing process also respects ethical principles.

It is important to know that, despite the many positive points, wood is a “demanding” material. It is not dishwasher safe; instead, it is important that it is washed with water and detergent and it is essential that you dry it right away. From time to time, she needs special “care”, such as sesame or poppy seed oils.

Do you usually use a wooden spoon to cook? Have you ever felt the taste of wood when eating? Share your experience in the comments.