Correct portioning by hand

A handful

A hand is an ideal measuring instrument in the kitchen. Whether it's sliced vegetables, such as peppers, carrots or cucumber, or slices of apples, pears or oranges, the right portion is the amount that fits into your hand. The same applies to nuts and snacks.

Two hands full

If you cup your hands together to form a bowl, you can use it to measure the ideal portion size of smaller foods, such as berries, cherries, potatoes, muesli, elbow pasta or penne. This is also a great way to work out the right amount of rice or lentils for yourself. If grains spill over the side, the portion is too large.

A palm

Your outstretched hand gives you the length for an ideal portion of meat, fish or bread. How thick should the piece be? This is indicated by the thickness of your finger.

Two palms

You can be more generous with salad and cooked vegetables, such as broccoli, beans or courgettes. Here, a single portion fits into two palms.

One thumb

The right portion of fat, such as oil or butter, is about the size of your thumb.

Two thumbs

A portion of cheese is twice the size of your thumb.

By the way, if you’re cooking for children, you can roughly halve the portions indicated above.