Bouillon Spoon vs Soup Spoon (The answer might surprise you!)

Have you ever found yourself at a formal dinner or banquet, perplexed by the array of soup spoons laid out before you? If so, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll unravel the mystery behind the bouillon, soup, and cream soup spoons, shedding light on their subtle yet significant differences.

Understanding the Bouillon Spoon:

Bouillon spoons and soup spoons may seem interchangeable, but they serve distinct purposes. The bouillon spoon is designed for clear or broth-based soups, as well as jellied concoctions. With its round shape and shallow bowl, the bouillon spoon perfectly complements the side of a soup bowl, making it the ideal companion for lighter soups and sides.

Decoding the Soup Spoon:

As a general term, the soup spoon encompasses various types, with the cream soup spoon being the most common. Characterized by its larger, rounded bowl, the soup spoon facilitates easy sipping. Whether it’s a chowder, bisque, or cream-based soup, the soup spoon is your go-to utensil for heartier liquid delights.

Meet the Cream Soup Spoon:

Designed specifically for thick soups like clam chowder and lobster bisque, the cream soup spoon boasts a wide, deep bowl crafted from stainless steel. Its 6-inch length and long handle make it perfect for reaching the bottom of cream soup bowls. While not typically used in formal dinners, the cream soup spoon shines at luncheons where heavier soups take center stage.

Unveiling the Bouillon Spoon:

Shorter in length, around 5 to 5 1/2 inches, the bouillon spoon is exclusively reserved for clear, broth-based, and jellied soups. Its round, shallow bowl distinguishes it from its cream soup counterpart, and it is best suited for lighter dishes and sides, steering clear of heavy stews and cream-based delights.

Discovering the Chinese Soup Spoon:

Enter the Chinese soup spoon, a lightweight alternative often crafted from ceramic or porcelain. Featuring a large, deep bowl and a short, thick handle, these spoons are versatile enough to handle various Asian soups like Ramen, Wonton, Pho, Udon, and Soba, thanks to their flat bottoms.

Placement and Etiquette:

In a formal table setting, the soup spoon finds its place on the outer right-hand side, adjacent to the dinner knife. Typically, it awaits the first course, being the initial item served. To use a soup spoon correctly, hold it horizontally, dip away from yourself, and sip from the side to prevent spills.

Soup Spoon Alternatives:

If you find yourself without a designated soup spoon, fear not! Dinner spoons, slightly larger than teaspoons, and dessert spoons, with oval bowls, can step in seamlessly for a satisfying soup experience.

Conclusion:

Next time you encounter an assortment of soup spoons, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to navigate the dining experience gracefully. Whether indulging in a light bouillon or savoring a creamy bisque, understanding the nuances of each spoon ensures a delightful culinary journey.