Scraper (kitchen)

Scraper (kitchen)

A scraper is a versatile kitchen tool used primarily in baking and cooking to manipulate dough and other ingredients. It is an essential tool for both professional chefs and home cooks, aiding in tasks such as cutting, lifting, and cleaning.

A variety of dough scrapers

Types of Scrapers

There are several types of scrapers, each designed for specific tasks in the kitchen:

Dough Scraper

A dough scraper, also known as a bench scraper or bench knife, is a flat, rectangular tool with a handle on one edge. It is primarily used in baking to manipulate dough. The dough scraper is ideal for:

• Dividing dough into portions
• Lifting and turning dough
• Cleaning work surfaces

A dough scraper in use

Dough scrapers are typically made of metal or plastic, with a straight edge that can be used to cut through dough cleanly.

Bowl Scraper

A bowl scraper is a flexible tool used to scrape the sides of mixing bowls. It is often made of silicone or rubber, allowing it to conform to the shape of the bowl and remove every last bit of batter or dough. Bowl scrapers are essential for minimizing waste and ensuring thorough mixing.

Spatula

While not strictly a scraper, a spatula can perform similar functions. Spatulas are used to flip, spread, and mix ingredients. They come in various shapes and sizes, with some designed specifically for scraping bowls or pans.

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A spatula, often used for scraping

Uses in the Kitchen

Scrapers are indispensable in the kitchen for a variety of tasks:

• Cutting and Dividing: Dough scrapers are used to cut dough into equal portions, ensuring uniformity in baked goods.
• Lifting and Transferring: The flat edge of a scraper can slide under dough or other ingredients, making it easy to lift and transfer them without sticking.
• Cleaning: Scrapers are excellent for cleaning flour and dough residue from work surfaces, keeping the kitchen tidy.
• Mixing and Folding: Bowl scrapers and spatulas are used to mix and fold ingredients, ensuring even distribution without overworking the dough.

Materials

Scrapers are made from a variety of materials, each offering different benefits:

• Metal: Provides a sharp edge for cutting and is durable.
• Plastic: Lightweight and often more affordable, suitable for non-stick surfaces.
• Silicone: Flexible and heat-resistant, ideal for scraping bowls and pans.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care of scrapers ensures their longevity and effectiveness:

• Cleaning: Most scrapers are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to maintain their edge and flexibility.
• Storage: Store scrapers in a dry place to prevent rusting (for metal scrapers) and warping (for plastic or silicone scrapers).

Related Pages

• Spatula
• Baking
• Cooking
• Kitchen utensil