We're cutting right to the chase here: Do you own a kitchen scale? If you do, congrats! You've managed to get yourself a multipurpose gadget, and you should probably stick around and read up on all the ways you may not be using it yet. If you don't, welcome: You're about to be amazed.
Food scales are often overlooked on the list of essential kitchen tools in a world where eyeballing salt and pepper is common and using measuring cups is standard. But they're actually quite versatile and often quite affordable, too. And you don't have to look far for a great option. The #1 bestselling on Amazon boasts over 120,000 five-star reviews and happens to be on sale right now for just $10. Say hello to the Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale.
If you want another fan's opinion on kitchen scales, look no further than The Pioneer Woman herself. That's right! Ree Drummond credits weighing her food as one of the secrets of her weight loss journey in 2021. "Measuring food in grams was much more effective and eye opening to me than just measuring a cup," she explains. It's way more accurate to measure by weight, and the Etekcity measures in small one-gram increments for up to 11 pounds of food with the touch of a button. Talk about precision!
Even if you aren't particularly concerned with calories, using a scale to meal prep will automatically help with portion control. You can know exactly how much of that casserole you're scooping out to eat for dinner tonight so you can have enough for lunch tomorrow. All you have to do is select the measurement you prefer (ounces, pounds/ounces, fluid ounces, grams, milliliters) and pop your food on top of the scale. That's it!
And of course, a scale isn't just about being healthy. Ask any professional baker or discerning sweet tooth: The best way to ensure all those layered cakes and sumptuous fruit pies come out perfect every time? Weigh your ingredients. If you're intimidated by baking or just want to get better, a digital scale will be your secret weapon for life.
When you're done with delectable masterpiece, simply wipe the scale down (it's made of food-grade stainless steel so any gentle kitchen cleaner or soapy water will work) and tuck it away. It's less than an inch thick and only about seven inches long, so it will easily fit in any kitchen drawer. It's also only seven ounces in weight, so you don't have to worry about lugging it around like other kitchen appliances.
It runs on two AAA batteries, no plugs or charging needed. Oh, and did we mention they include a set of batteries with the scale? All of that for just $10! Talk about the best and most affordable way to scale up your kitchen skills. Add it to your cart now and thank yourself later (as in, like two days from now when it arrives at your door).
AnnMarie Mattila is the Senior Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering a wide range of topics from food and cooking to home, beauty, style, and more.
