Is a Two-Handled Bowl for Cream Soup Called a Tureen?
A two-handled bowl specifically designed for serving cream soup is indeed often called a tureen. However, the term "tureen" encompasses a broader category of serving bowls, not just those for cream soups. While a tureen can be used for cream soup, and its two handles are particularly convenient for carrying a hot, full bowl, it's not exclusively designed for that purpose. Let's explore this further.
What is a Tureen?
A tureen is a large, deep bowl with a lid, typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or metal. Its primary function is serving soup or stew at the table. The presence of two handles adds stability and makes it easier to transport the hot, often heavy, contents. While cream soups are a common use, tureens are equally suitable for serving other types of soup, stews, or even some casseroles.
Are all two-handled bowls for soup tureens?
No, not all two-handled bowls for soup are tureens. The defining feature of a tureen is the lid. A two-handled bowl without a lid might be described as a serving bowl, a soup bowl, or a gravy boat (depending on its shape and size), but it wouldn't technically be a tureen. The lid is crucial to keeping the soup warm and preventing spills during transport.
What are other types of bowls used for cream soup?
While a tureen is a classic and elegant choice, other types of bowls can also be used to serve cream soup. These include:
- Large serving bowls: These bowls often lack handles but are large enough to serve a substantial amount of soup.
- Individual soup bowls: These are smaller bowls for individual servings. While not ideal for serving a large amount of cream soup from a single bowl, they are practical for already portioned soup.
- Specialized cream soup bowls: Some manufacturers create specifically designed bowls for cream soups, often with a wider, shallower shape than traditional soup bowls.
What materials are tureens typically made of?
Tureens are typically made from a variety of materials, including:
- Ceramic: A common and versatile choice, offering a wide range of styles and designs.
- Porcelain: Known for its durability and elegance, often seen in more formal settings.
- Metal (stainless steel, silver, etc.): Offers excellent heat retention and durability, but can sometimes feel less aesthetically pleasing than ceramic or porcelain.
Where can I find a tureen?
Tureens can be found in a variety of places, including:
- Department stores: Many department stores carry a selection of tableware, including tureens.
- Specialty kitchen stores: These stores often have a wider selection of high-quality tureens and serving dishes.
- Antique shops: You can sometimes find beautiful antique or vintage tureens, often at reasonable prices.
- Online retailers: A huge variety of tureens are available online, allowing for easy comparison shopping.
In conclusion, while a two-handled bowl for cream soup is often, and correctly, called a tureen, the term "tureen" specifically refers to a lidded bowl designed for serving soup or stew. Other bowls can serve cream soup equally well, depending on the occasion and the setting.
