RecipeML

RecipeML egg nog

RecipeML is an XML-based markup language designed for the purpose of encoding recipes. It was developed to provide a standardized format for the exchange of recipe data between different software applications and platforms. RecipeML aims to facilitate the sharing, storage, and retrieval of recipes in a consistent and structured manner.

History

RecipeML was introduced in the early 2000s as a response to the growing need for a universal format for digital recipes. Prior to its development, recipes were often stored in proprietary formats, making it difficult to share and use them across different systems. RecipeML was created to address these issues by providing a common language that could be used by various recipe management software and cooking websites.

Structure

RecipeML is based on XML (Extensible Markup Language), which allows for the creation of custom tags to describe different elements of a recipe. The main components of a RecipeML document include:

• Recipe: The root element that contains all other elements.
• Title: The name of the recipe.
• Ingredients: A list of ingredients required for the recipe.
• Instructions: Step-by-step directions for preparing the dish.
• Metadata: Additional information such as preparation time, cooking time, and serving size.

Example

Below is a simple example of a RecipeML document:

<recipe>
  <title>Chocolate Chip Cookies</title>
  <ingredients>
    <ingredient>
      <name>Flour</name>
      <quantity>2</quantity>
      <unit>cups</unit>
    </ingredient>
    <ingredient>
      <name>Sugar</name>
      <quantity>1</quantity>
      <unit>cup</unit>
    </ingredient>
    <ingredient>
      <name>Chocolate Chips</name>
      <quantity>1</quantity>
      <unit>cup</unit>
    </ingredient>
  </ingredients>
  <instructions>
    <step>Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).</step>
    <step>In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.</step>
    <step>Gradually blend in the flour and chocolate chips.</step>
    <step>Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.</step>
    <step>Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.</step>
  </instructions>
  <metadata>
    <preptime>15 minutes</preptime>
    <cooktime>10 minutes</cooktime>
    <servings>24 cookies</servings>
  </metadata>
</recipe>

Applications

RecipeML is used by various recipe management software, cooking websites, and mobile apps to facilitate the exchange and storage of recipe data. It allows users to import and export recipes between different platforms without losing any information or formatting.

Advantages

• Standardization: Provides a consistent format for recipes, making it easier to share and use them across different systems.
• Flexibility: Based on XML, allowing for the creation of custom tags to suit specific needs.
• Interoperability: Facilitates the exchange of recipe data between different software applications and platforms.

See Also

• XML
• Recipe management software
• Cooking websites
• Markup language

Related Pages

• XML
• Recipe management software
• Cooking websites
• Markup language