How to Use a Honey Dipper
A timeless classic, honey dippers provide an efficient way to drizzle honey with precision and control. That is – if you know how to use a honey dipper. There is a beauty in returning to traditional tools and techniques – especially when enjoying honey. With its spiral design and smooth, rounded handle, the honey dipper is both functional and beautiful. Here are some tips and techniques to help you place that dollop of honey exactly where you want it.
As with any tool, using a honey dipper with flare takes practice and patience. But, it is a remarkable item that has stood the test of time – giving it an important role in the many uses of honey.
Understanding the Honey Dipper
It is rather interesting that such a simple piece of wood can be mysterious – yet it is. The physics of how honey dippers work – revolves around two principle: viscosity and surface tension.
Honey has a high viscosity – meaning it is naturally thick and resistant to flow. The viscosity of honey causes it to stick to the groves of the dipper head. While the rotation of the dipper ensures that the grooves are filled with honey.
Surface tension refers to the cohesive forces that hold the molecules together on the surface of the liquid. As you lift the honey-coated dipper out of the jar, the surface tension of the honey prevents it from immediately dripping off the dipper.
The design of the honey dipper works to increase the effectiveness of both principles. The spirals or grooves increase the surface area for honey to fill.
If you use a honey dipper correctly, these filled grooves give you better control over where the drips go.
Using a Honey Dipper Step by Step
1. Begin with an open jar of honey. If it is very cold or your honey has begun to crystallize – you may need to sit the jar in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes to warm it up a bit.
2. Grasp the round handle of honey dipper in the middle region – using your hand to stabilize the upper part of the handle.
3. Lower the head of the honey dipper into the jar of honey – letting the ridges and spirals collect honey. Do not immerse the round handle part.
4. With your thumb and fingers, slowly rotate the handle to spin the dipper head. This allows honey to fill all the grooves.
5. Once the grooves are well-coated, lift the dipper out of the honey. Hold it vertically over the jar to let some of the excess drip back in.
6. Position the loaded honey dipper over the desired food or beverage. Slowly twist the handle again and drizzle honey on the desired location.
Types of Honey Dippers
Before we load it up and sling honey here and there, lets investigate some of the fundamentals of honey dippers. This includes a variety of designs and materials used to make them.
- wood
- stainless steel
- silicone
The classic wooden honey dipper is the iconic representation of the group. They are often made of beech, cherry or maple wood. The spiral or grooved head helps collect and hold honey. They offer charm and a rustic way to gently drizzle honey.
Stainless steel honey dippers have their advantages as well. Sleek and resistant to rust, their non porous surface makes them easy to clean. This makes them a good choice for frequent use.
The latest member of the honey dipper family is silicone. Silicone dippers are flexible, heat resistant and dishwasher safe. Their soft heads make them a convenient option for cooking or serving honey dishes.
Cleaning and Storing
In general, rinse the honey dipper in warm water after each use. Use a soft brush to remove any honey residue in the spiral head. Allow the dipper to dry completely before storage to reduce the risk of mold, etc.
Some people periodically sanitize a honey dipper by soaking it in a solution of water and white vinegar for just a few minutes. Then, rinse well and let dry before storing.
FAQs
Yes, you can use any kind of honey dipper with your jar of honey. However, take the size and style of your jar into consideration – you must have a dipper with a handle long enough to reach the honey inside the jar.
Cleaning a honey dipper is very simple. After each use rinse it well with warm water to remove and residue – allow it to dry completely before storage.
With a little practice, you can learn how to use a honey dipper like a pro. After dipping the head into the honey, lift it up vertically slowly and allow the excess to drip back into the jar. You can also gently tap to remove extra drips.
Most honey dippers can be put in the dishwasher. However, to prolong the life of the dipper – it is best to hand wash with warm water and gentle dish soap if needed.
A Final Thought
Mastering the art of how to use a honey dipper is not only for fine dining occasions. By understanding the physics behind honey dippers, you can elevate your honey-drizzling experience to new heights of precision.