Deli containers are among the most useful items you can keep in a kitchen. The time-honored tradition of storing leftovers in these nondescript but instantly recognizable containers persists to this day, despite the ubiquity of Tupperware and other food storage brands. Not only are they clear, allowing you to see exactly what’s inside at all…
No Measuring Cup? No Problem
If you’re in a pinch, you can use deli containers as makeshift measuring cups. The three standard sizes double as common culinary measurements: 8 ounces (1 cup), 16 ounces (2 cups), and 32 ounces (4 cups). While they aren’t precise enough for baking, these containers are incredibly handy for everyday cooking if you don’t have a set of measuring cups around, or if yours are buried in the dishwasher.
Tips and Cautions
Make sure you wash deli containers thoroughly before using them for food storage or as a measuring tool. Because plastic easily absorbs food oils, these containers tend to hold on to strong flavors and stains. Give them a good scrub and let them dry completely before measuring or storing a new ingredient.
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Importantly, opt for a traditional measuring cup when a recipe requires precision. While deli containers hold standard kitchen measurements, they aren’t calibrated for exactitude, so you’ll want to skip them for tasks like baking. Stick to real measuring cups and spoons when you’re whipping up a cake or a batch of cookies. Save the deli cup hack for flexible recipes that won’t be ruined by a slight variance, like adding broth to a soup or prepping a cup of vegetables for a stir-fry.
