How do you determine number of servings in a recipe if not stated?

To determine the number of servings in a recipe if it's not stated, consider these factors:

1. Typical Serving Sizes: Refer to standard serving sizes for different food items. For example, a serving of meat or fish is typically 4-6 ounces cooked, a serving of pasta or rice is about 1/2 cup cooked, and a serving of vegetables is about 1/2 cup cooked.

2. Number of Ingredients: Consider the quantity of ingredients used in the recipe. If the recipe calls for a significant amount of ingredients, it likely yields more servings. Conversely, if the recipe uses a small quantity of ingredients, it may produce fewer servings.

3. Recipe Complexity: Complex recipes with multiple components, such as a multi-layer cake or a layered lasagna, often yield more servings compared to simpler recipes like scrambled eggs or a single-serving smoothie.

4. Appetizer or Main Course: Determine if the recipe is intended as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. Appetizers typically yield more servings as they're meant to be shared in smaller portions, while main courses tend to have larger serving sizes.

5. Recipe Yield: If the recipe doesn't specify the number of servings but mentions the total quantity produced (e.g., 8 cups of soup or 12 muffins), you can calculate the number of servings based on standard serving sizes for that particular dish.

6. Cookbook Guidelines: Some cookbooks provide general guidelines for estimating serving sizes. Check the introduction or recipe notes for any recommendations provided by the cookbook author.

7. Personal Preferences and Dietary Needs: Consider individual appetites, dietary restrictions, and preferences. Some individuals may prefer larger or smaller portions based on their personal preferences or dietary needs.

Remember, serving sizes can vary depending on the context, culture, and dietary habits. If the recipe doesn't provide a clear indication of servings, use your judgment based on the above factors to estimate an appropriate serving size.