Measurement and ingredient differences

A number of the plant-based recipes shared originate from the United States (US) or United Kingdom (UK), which use different measurement systems and terminology. In Australia (Au) or New Zealand (NZ), here are some key differences to keep in mind.

Measurement differences

Cups

• US cups are 237mL
• Au, UK and NZ cups are 250mL

This may slightly alter liquid-based recipes.

Tablespoons

• US/UK/NZ tablespoon = approx 15mL
• Au tablespoon = 20mL (therefore 1 US/UK/NZ tablespoon ≈ ¾ Au tablespoon)

Teaspoons

• Teaspoons are the same across regions (5mL)

Food name differences

• Arugula → Rocket (Au/NZ)
• Bell pepper or pepper → Capsicum (Au/NZ)
• Courgette → Zucchini (Au)
• Aubergine → Eggplant (Au/NZ)
• Cilantro → Coriander (Au/NZ)
• Beet → Beetroot (Au/NZ)
• Rutabaga → Swede (Au/NZ)
• Scallions → Shallots or spring onions (Au/NZ)
• Winter squash → Pumpkin (Au/NZ)
• Summer squash → Squash (Au/NZ)
• Cantaloupe or melon → Rockmelon (Au/NZ)
• Tomato sauce → Passata or tomato puree (Au/NZ)
• Tomato puree → Tomato paste (Au/NZ)
• Tomato ketchup → Tomato sauce (Au/NZ) – can also buy separately labelled ketchup
• Oatmeal → Porridge (Au/NZ)
• Garbanzo beans → Chickpeas (Au/NZ)
• Whole wheat flour → Wholemeal flour (Au/NZ)
• Baking soda → Bicarbonate of soda (Au)
• Jelly → Jam (Au/NZ)
• Jello → Jelly (Au/NZ)
• Crisps → Potato chips (Au/NZ)
• French fries → Chips or hot chips (Au/NZ)
• Seltzer → Sparkling water (Au/NZ)
• Marinara sauce → Tomato-based pasta sauce, not containing seafood (Au/NZ)
• Hotcakes, griddle cakes, flapjacks → Pancakes (Au/NZ)
• Ground meat → Minced meat, mince (Au/NZ)
• Kumara → Yam, sweet potato (Au, NZ)
• Swiss Chard → Silverbeet (Au, NZ)
• Pickle → Gherkin (Au, NZ)
• Golden raisins → Sultana (Au, NZ)
• Kiwi → Kiwifruit (Au, NZ)

Key spice differences

• Chili powder: In the US, “chili powder” is a spice blend containing cumin, garlic, and other seasonings. In Australia and New Zealand, chili/chilli powder refers to pure ground chilli and is much hotter. If you’re using a US-based recipe, be cautious and check whether the recipe means a spice mix or pure chili powder. Pure chili powder can also vary in heat so use with caution if you are sensitive to spicy food.

Tip: If you need a US-style chili powder mix, here’s a simple homemade version:

• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne (adjust to taste)

Mix and store in an airtight jar for use in recipes calling for US chili powder.