Brandt Ranj, a commerce reporter for The Verge, is passionate about finding the best tools and gadgets for his readers. His job involves staying on top of constantly evolving tech trends, from wearables to subscription deals – a dynamic landscape requiring sharp attention to detail. What might surprise you, though, is that one of his most treasured possessions isn’t a sleek smartphone or innovative gadget but a simple kitchen scale: the OXO 11 lb Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-out Display.
This isn’t just about weighing ingredients; for Ranj, it represents a shift from tradition to precision in his baking practices. He acknowledges coming from “a long line of bakers who measure everything by feel.” Family recipes handed down through generations relied on intuition and experience rather than strict measurements. Ranj himself describes this approach as leading to “confused looks” from his family when he opted for a more analytical approach.
However, the benefits speak volumes: consistent results thanks to precise ingredient ratios and uniform cookie sizes. This meticulousness isn’t just about professional-grade outcomes; it reflects a commitment to accuracy and repeatability that elevates baking beyond mere tradition.
So, why did Ranj choose this particular scale? It boils down to practicality. He appreciates the magnetically attached pull-out display, which allows him to position it comfortably while working with large bowls without disturbing the measurement process.
The scale has proven itself reliable over years of use. The large, clear display and tactile buttons make it easy to read and operate even in a flour-dusted environment. It’s surprisingly robust, handling accidental splashes of liquid ingredients without complaint. Battery life is commendable, lasting months before replacement is needed. For Ranj, it epitomizes the “one job” device done exceptionally well.
While incredibly satisfied, Ranj does acknowledge room for improvement. In the realm of gourmet pizza making, a scale with dual platforms – one for larger quantities and another for minuscule measurements – would be invaluable. This allows precise gram-by-gram ingredient proportioning crucial in achieving a perfectly balanced homemade pizza dough.
He also suggests an upgrade to a removable, replaceable rechargeable battery to avoid e-waste associated with discarding the entire scale when its original battery degrades.
Ranj’s advice for aspiring precision bakers transitioning from volume-based measurements is straightforward: convert those cups and spoons into grams or ounces if needed. While there are estimates for how many grams are in a cup of flour (generally around 120 to 130 grams), it’s best to rely on recipes specifically designed for weight measurement or consult ingredient packaging/websites for conversion guidance. King Arthur Baking Company, for example, clearly states that one cup of their flour equals 120 grams on their product bags – a helpful detail that makes conversion seamless.
With consistent practice, Ranj assures us, you’ll soon be able to convert measurements mentally and even impress your friends at cocktail parties with the surprising weight of a stick of butter: 113 grams! His story underscores how even seemingly mundane tools like kitchen scales can elevate everyday tasks, turning them into precise and satisfying experiences
