A food processor can replace many kitchen gadgets, with versatile models able to cut, knead, blend, and juice. When shopping for a stand mixer, consider power, portability, functionality, and accessories. A medium-sized mixer with at least 400 watts of power and well-constructed cutting tools is ideal for most home cooks. Storage and portability should also be considered.
The strength of a food processor is its ability to replace a number of other kitchen gadgets. A versatile model with the right blades and accessories can cut food like a knife, knead bread like a mixer, blend ingredients like an electric blender, and extract juice like a commercial juicer. Many home cooks may be overwhelmed by the number of options this kitchen machine presents.
When shopping for a stand mixer, you should consider power, portability, and functionality. These sizes range from a 2 cup (473 mL) miniature chopper to a 20 cup (4.7 L) professional model for cooking and bulk preparation. The first trick is to buy one that meets your particular cooking needs. Most home cooks might use a medium-sized stand mixer, holding about 8 to 10 cups (1.89 to 2.36 L), for family recipes. Smaller mini-processors might come in handy for chopping some ingredients quickly, so having two different machines might not be a bad idea. Save the larger sizes for professionals and caterers, unless you anticipate the occasional need for bulk cooking.
Another important consideration is power. Larger units naturally require more power for kneading bread dough and breaking up tough vegetables. Look for at least 400 watts of power for an average machine. Professional units can have 750 watts or more, which is more than enough to handle any food preparation.
One consideration that can separate a good stand mixer from the rest of the pack is the accessories available. An ideal unit would contain blades, cutting discs and beaters. Cutting tools must be well constructed and fit securely on the machine. A generous feed tube with a plunge device is also a good feature. Small feed tubes can cause cooks to spend a lot of time reducing the size of foods before processing. A good machine allows you to add food during operation. A blender attachment can save time and shelf space, while a juicer option duplicates the function of a more expensive device.
Since a stand mixer is designed to replace a number of other appliances, storage and portability can also be considered. Some have retractable cables or a stacking system for blades and accessories. Most of the working parts should be dishwasher safe or at least easy to clean by hand. Cooks with small children may want one with a lock system to prevent accidental starts.
Learning which accessories perform specific tasks in a stand mixer takes time, so study your owner’s manual carefully for tips on how to get the best results from your new kitchen appliance.
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