Buying guide
Ladles: Sizes, Materials and Pouring Lips
What size ladle to buy for soup, stew and gravy, and which materials suit stainless, cast iron and non-stick pans.
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A ladle does one job very well: moving hot liquid from pan to bowl without spills. A good one has the right size bowl, a long handle and a lip that pours cleanly.
Our shortlist
Shortlist in progress
We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
Where to buy
Browse current options and prices at the retailer. These are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no cost to you (disclosure).
What to look for
| Feature | Why |
|---|---|
| Bowl size | About 100–150 ml for soup and stew; small ones for sauces and gravy |
| Pouring lip | Pours into a narrow jar or flask without dribbles |
| Long, angled handle | Reaches the bottom of a deep stockpot |
| Hook or notch | Rests on the pan edge without sliding in |
Materials
| Material | Notes |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Durable, heat-proof, dishwasher-safe |
| Silicone or nylon | Kind to non-stick pans; check the heat rating |
| Wood | Traditional; hand-wash only |
Serve Scotch broth or cock-a-leekie straight from a stockpot.
Frequently asked questions
What size ladle do I need for soup?
A bowl of about 100–150 ml serves a good portion in one or two scoops.
Can I use a metal ladle in a non-stick pan?
Use a silicone or nylon ladle instead, as metal can scratch the coating.
Why does my ladle drip?
Ladles without a pouring lip tend to dribble. A ladle with a lip on one or both sides pours cleanly.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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