Is a Two-Handled Bowl for Cream Soup Called a Tureen? Understanding Soup Bowls and Serving Dishes
A two-handled bowl specifically designed for serving cream soup is often, but not always, called a tureen. While the term "tureen" is commonly associated with soup, particularly cream soups, it's crucial to understand the nuances and variations in serving dishes. This isn't a simple yes or no answer; let's explore the details.
What is a Tureen?
A tureen is a large, deep bowl with a lid, typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or even silver, used for serving soup at the table. Its defining characteristics include:
- Two handles: These handles allow for easy and safe transport of the hot soup.
- Lid: The lid keeps the soup warm and prevents spills during serving.
- Size and Shape: Tureens come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different serving quantities, but they are generally larger than individual soup bowls.
- Material: Though commonly ceramic or porcelain, you can find tureens crafted from other materials like wood, metal, or even glass.
Are all two-handled soup bowls tureens?
No, not all two-handled bowls used for soup are tureens. While a tureen is a type of two-handled soup bowl, the key differentiator is the lid. A two-handled bowl without a lid isn't technically a tureen. It could be described as a large serving bowl, a soup bowl, or a cream soup bowl depending on its intended use and design.
What if it doesn't have a lid? What's it called then?
A two-handled bowl without a lid used for serving cream soup might be called a serving bowl, a cream soup bowl, or simply a large bowl. The specific name will depend on the context and its style. Sometimes, a descriptive name like "two-handled cream soup bowl" is perfectly appropriate and clear.
What are the differences between a tureen and a soup bowl?
The main differences are size, lid, and intended use:
- Size: Tureens are significantly larger than individual soup bowls.
- Lid: Tureens have lids; individual soup bowls do not.
- Intended Use: Tureens are designed for serving soup to a group from a central point on the table, while soup bowls are for individual portions.
What are some other types of soup serving dishes?
Beyond tureens and individual soup bowls, there are various other serving options:
- Soup Crock: A rustic, often earthenware vessel, often used for keeping soup warm.
- Chafing Dish: A heated serving dish used to keep food warm at the table. Though not exclusively for soup, it's a suitable option.
- Fondue Pot: While traditionally used for cheese or chocolate fondue, a fondue pot can also be adapted to serve soup in a unique and interactive way.
In conclusion, while a two-handled bowl for cream soup is often a tureen, the presence or absence of a lid is the key differentiating factor. Using a descriptive phrase, such as "two-handled cream soup bowl," avoids any ambiguity if it lacks a lid. Understanding the nuances of serving dishes ensures you choose the right vessel for your culinary presentation.
