A ladle is a large, long-handled serving spoon designed to scoop stews, soups, sauces, and the classic fruit punch. The name originates from an old-English word meaning to load or to draw up water. While they’re a kind of spoon, a ladle’s bigger size is made for serving food.
Ladle spoons can be as rustic or polished as your other serving utensils. Try a wooden one for a hearty stew by the fireplace or a silver ladle when you bring out the fine china for a holiday feast.