26 Different Types of Bowls with Images
Bowls are flexible equipment in the kitchen which are used in handling and preparing foods. These tools come in different shapes, sizes, and capacities. They can be made of different materials like plastic, stainless steels, ceramic, and wood. Most types of bowls are used in the kitchen for cooking, food storage, and serving food, while others are for cleaning.
Bowls are as old as gold. They have been made for over a thousand years. Most primitive bowls were found in China, Crete, Ancient Greece, and in some native American cultures. These antique bowls were usually used in pottery, specifically during Ancient Greek.
In this article, let’s talk about the different types of bowls being used to date.
Different Types Of Bowls
Bowls are classified according to materials, usage and bowl styles. Here are some of these
Types of Bowls According to Materials
Ceramic Bowls
Ceramic bowls are made from ceramic materials such as clay, shaped and heated at a high temperature. Most of these ceramic bowls are oven-proof and microwave safe. A really nice ceramic bowl has a unique appearance that will be appealing on everyone’s dining table. Most of these bowls have vibrant colors and fun decorative designs. Indeed, ceramic bowls are visually appealing that they are not only used for serving dishes, but also in interior decorations.
Moroco, Spain, and Italy are some of the countries known for producing ceramic bowls.
Earthenware Bowls
Earthenware bowls are also made from clay, baked in a relatively low temperature to become unbreakable. These bowls are dishwasher safe and practical for everyday use. However, these bowls should not be placed directly in the oven or on a direct burner. Earthenware bowls are slightly porous and they are not ideal for serving soup and other watery dishes.
Earthenware bowls are universally used in the 21st century. These kitchen tools are also known for being cold proof and heat proof, and are perfect for cooking, serving, and freezing foods. Earthenware bowls are also physically appealing and should add design in your table setting.
Glass Bowls
Among the common types of bowls that are present in every household’s dining table are the glass bowls. These bowls are versatile and are perfect for serving salads, noodles, cereals, and other dishes. Most glass bowls are microwave and dishwasher safe. And just like any other typical bowl, glass bowl is easy to wash and clean as they don’t get easily stained.
Glass bowls are visually appealing and come in different designs. They can be used in very special occasions, but may not be suitable for some instances as they are fragile and delicate. For those who buy decorative bowls, try glass bowls. These practical bowls will not only add style in your table setting, but will also suit your budget as they are very much affordable.
Fine China Bowls
Just like glass bowls, fine china bowls are also fragile. These bowls are made from China clay, known as kaolin, a white type of clay that is also used in making porcelain. However, these stunning bowls are not dishwasher and microwave safe. Thus, fine china bowls need extra care when cleaned and washed.
These bowls are also not ideal for everyday use. In fact, most people buy fine china bowls only to be used on very special occasions. Some also prefer to use fine china bowls as decorations rather than serving dishes.
Bone China Bowls
Bone china bowls are the most durable and strongest ceramic ware. They are actually made of real animal bones. But even so, these bowls also need extra care as they are still fragile and breakable. Bone china bowls are mostly white and translucent, but still visually appealing. They are also dishware-safe and can go in the oven and microwave.
Stoneware Bowls
Stoneware bowls are non-porous ceramic dinnerware. They are made from stoneware clay heated in a temperature at around 2330 degrees Fahrenheit. Known for being dense and durable, stoneware bowls need not to be glazed. These bowls come in different decorative designs. Its earthy appearance is also perfect for casual restaurants, and is also ideal for everyday use on your dinner table.
These bowls are sturdy. They are also microwave and dishwasher safe. Just like any other bowls, stoneware bowls are great for serving dishes.
Porcelain Bowls
Porcelain bowls are also made from China clay (kaolin) and pottery stone (petunse). These bowls usually have a white and translucent appearance. Porcelain bowls are perfect for serving salad, sauces, and soups. Compared to ceramic, porcelain is water resistant. These bowls are also durable and water resistant, making it a bit expensive compared to other regular bowls. If you are looking for the right bowl, try porcelain.
Melamine Bowls
Melamine bowls are dishwasher-safe but are not ideal to be used in a microwave. These bowls are made from plastic and come in different shapes, colors, and designs. Melamine bowls are also durable and sturdy. If you are looking for kitchenware to be used by an elderly or young child, melamine is definitely a good choice. It is safer to use in serving dishes as it won’t easily break.
Bamboo Bowls
Bamboo bowls are eco-friendly, durable, and simply beautiful. And since these bowls are made from wood, they are not dishwasher and microwave safe. They also need to be washed by hand. Bamboo bowls can be used for up to two years. These bowls can be used in serving salads and appetizers at your dinner table.
Metal Bowls
Metal bowls are mixing and decorative bowls, and can also be storage bowls. Metal bowls are ideal for serving dishes, baking, and storing food. But make sure not to put these bowls in a microwave to avoid bad burns.
Metal bowls are durable, lightweight, and inexpensive.
Plastic Bowls
Plastic bowls are commonly used in many kitchens. They are budget-friendly and are perfect for storing and serving dishes. These types of bowls should not be used nor exposed in heat as they are not designed to handle replete heat. Thus, it is not safe to put these bowls in a microwave.
Silicone Bowls
Silicone bowls are made from a combined synthetic plastic polymer and synthetic rubber materials. Silicon does not react with drinks or food, and therefore, does not produce harmful gas. Since silicon bowls are foldable in nature, they won’t take too much space in your kitchen closet.
Copper Bowls
Copper bowls can be used as mixing bowls. Copper is also perfect in beating and whisking egg whites. Copper bowls have copper ions that stabilize egg whites and make them firm quickly. Aside from beating egg whites, the bowl is also ideal for mashing potatoes, mixing crepe batters, whipping cream, and baked dishes. Though copper bowls are expensive, you won’t regret owning one. Apart from the many uses copper bowls have, they are also elegant and beautiful.
Types of Bowls According to Style
Singing Bowls
Unlike other bowl styles, singing bowls are made for relaxation. These bowls produce sounds and vibrations when struck with a mallet. They are usually made from synthetic alloys like copper, gold, silver, iron, lead, tin, and bronze.
Pet Bowls
A pet bowl is usually designed for pets like dogs and cats. Most pet bowls are made from ceramic, melamine, or stainless steel. If you are looking for a good pet bowl, be sure not to opt for the plastic ones as they are chewable, and therefore, harmful for your pet’s health. It is recommended to wash your pet bowl on a regular basis to avoid contamination.
Decorative Bowls
From the word itself, decorative bowls are designed not to serve or store food, but as decorations. These bowls come in different sizes, shapes, and designs. They are also made from different materials like stone, porcelain, glass, crystal, and wood. Hence, the price varies depending on the material being used. Decorative bowls will definitely add a finishing touch to everyone’s living room, kitchen, or coffee tables.
Storage Bowls
Storage bowls are food-storage containers that will keep your food protected. They can be both made from plastic or glass. Glass storage bowls can be used in an oven or microwave. However, if you are planning to store your food in a refrigerator, opt to use the plastic storage bowls.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are made for working doughs, mixing salads, storage, and mixing dry ingredients. These bowls come in different sizes and made from different materials. But the most commonly used mixing bowls are those stainless steel mixing bowls. Aside from being light in weight, the bowls are also durable and easy to clean. Looking for the best mixing bowls, select the one with grater lids and rubberized base.
Candy Bowls
Candy bowls are not only limited to sweets and candy usage, but also for small nibbles and snacks. They are perfect to use in your coffee tables. Candy bowls can be from plastic, stainless steel, or glass. But the most commonly used candy bowls are the ones made of glass. The price may vary depending on the product size, color, and material.
Pasta Bowls
Pasta bowls are serving bowls for pasta. Compared to other kitchenware, pasta bowls have a very distinct shape. Each bowl is shallow and wider. These bowls are designed not only for pasta but also for other dishes like stews, stir fries, and curries.
Ramekin
Ramekins are small dishes made for serving or baking a small amount of food. Ramekin is actually a Dutch word that means ‘to toast’ or ‘roasted minced meat”. Ramekins were originally circle in shape but now come in various modern designs like heart, flowers, and stars. These bowls are also heat-resistant and can be used in an oven or direct flame.
Salad Bowls
Salad bowls are bowl-shaped serving dishes made from glass and metal. They are generally used in mixing salad ingredients, and therefore, can be considered as a mixing bowl. If you are up to sophisticated salad bowls, porcelain and ceramic should be ideal options.
Soup Bowls
Soup bowls can be with or without handles. A soup bowl with the best material is professional grade porcelain. This bowl is chip-resistant and durable. Soup bowls are actually classified into types.
- Coupe soup bowl- bowls that look like a saucer, measure about 6-9 inches, and are commonly used in informal dining.
- Soup plate– are bowls that are wide and shallow which measure 1-2 inches wide and 9-10 inches in diameter. This shallow bowl is usually used in formal dining.
- Soup-cereal bowl – are cereal bowls used when eating pasta, salad, and other dishes that are eaten using a fork. Compared to the coupe soup bowl and the soup plate, it is narrower and deeper. This is also known as oatmeal bowl, and can be with or without a rim.
- Covered soup bowl- is a bowl used to serve soup. These bowls are designed to keep soup warm. Usually used in formal dining. Each bowl has a depth of 2 to 3.5 inches and 4-6 inches across
- Cream soup bowl– is a wide shallow cup with two handles. It is usually used to serve a first course of pureed soup, often at meals with an un-heavy menu.
- Bouillon cup and saucer – are small serving bowls used to serve small pieces of pudding, custard. chilli, and other dishes.
Rice Bowls
Rice bowls are made for rice dishes. These bowls are commonly used worldwide and are usually sold with chopsticks, especially in Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries in Southeast Asia.
Finger Bowls
Finger bowls are not for eating soup nor a serving bowl. The finger bowl is a bowl of water used for rinsing fingers. It is usually brought to the table after the dessert is served.
Dip Bowls
These bowls can be used for serving dips, dressings, condiments, appetizers, candies, and other side dishes. Dip bowls are handy and usually with a curved design.
