How to Remove Lumps from Powdered Ingredients without a Flour Sifter
Sifting is a way to lighten powdered ingredients by breaking up the lumps formed in bags during storage and shipping. You are particularly advised to sift powdered ingredients when using them in a baking recipe.
You can sift them before you measure them or after having measured, but it is necessary. It ensures that the dry ingredients will combine evenly with the wet ingredients, and also prevents clumping during the mixing process. A hand sifter is a tool used to break the lumps formed in powdered ingredients. However, if you do not have a hand sifter, there are several other methods you can use to achieve the best results.
Things Required:
– Powdered Ingredient such as confectioner’s sugar or flour
– Measuring cup
– Wire mesh strainer
– Wire Whisk
– Spoon
– Fork
Instructions
-
1
Wire Mesh Strainer Technique
Measure the desired quantity of the dry ingredient that you want to sift and put it into a small bowl. If the required quantity is less than one cup, you can even leave it in the measuring cup. Hold the wire mesh strainer by its handle, just above a dry, clean bowl. Spoon the powdered ingredient into the strainer and tap its sides very lightly with your free hand. Keep on tapping the side of the strainer until all the powder has fallen through the wire mesh.
To fasten the sifting process, stir your hand through the powdered ingredient to push it through, but do not press it hard, just move your hand, a spatula or a spoon through it. This will sift faster than just tapping the strainer. -
2
Wire Whisk Technique
You can also use a wire whisk to sift your dry ingredients. Measure the desired quantity of flour or powdered sugar, whichever requires sifting, and pour it into a dry and clean bowl. Gently stir the powdered ingredient with a hand whisk. Continue whisking until the dry ingredient has a smooth and fluffy appearance. -
3
Fork Technique
If you don’t have wire mesh strainer or wire whisk, use a fork to remove the lumps and sift the powdered ingredient. Put the desired amount of flour or sugar in an empty mixing bowl, and run a fork through it to add air and break up any lumps. Keep on stirring with the fork until the dry ingredient is fluffy.
