Food Processors

A food processor is a must for any budding cook who prefers authentic cooking to opening a box or frozen bag of prepared food. These modern electric wizards can take the hardship out of chopping, dicing and pureeing any ingredient. Food processors are especially handy when cooking for a lot of people -- making preparation a snap at the touch of a button.  Read on to learn about the many different features available on food processors.

What to Look For in a Food Processor

• Capacity
• Food processors are available in a wide range of sizes, from small 500ml units to jumbo 2.8L models.
• As with many appliances, it is generally better to overestimate the size you need -- you don't have to fill it up all the way, but that extra capacity might come in handy someday.
• Keep in mind the amount of counter and storage space available to you. Larger capacity models take up a lot of space.
• Attachments
• The beauty of food processors is that they can do a myriad of tasks with a simple switch of the blade.
• Look for a model that has all the features you want.
• At the same time, watch out for extra "bonus" features that may not be useful and probably cost you more.
• Newer models offer a food processor and blender all-in-one. All you have to do is change the top piece.

Other Features

• Some food processors have many speed settings; others have just a few.
• A pulse button is especially handy for good control over foods that don't need much processing.
• Cleanup
• As with any kitchen appliance, if it's easy to clean, then you'll be more likely to use it.
• Look for models with dishwasher-safe parts, easily removable chamber and lid, etc.
• Safety
• Look for models with safety features, such as safe storage of blades and a locking lid.

 Popular Food Processors

Differences Between Blender and Food Processor

Food processors  are as versatile as a kitchen appliance can be. They have many of the same features as blenders  -- slice, dice, mix, puree, grind, mash -- but there are several key differences.

• Blenders use dull blades, processing food with blunt force. Food processor blades, on the other hand, are extremely sharp to cut through the food.
• Blenders are usually used for pureeing foods that are already soft at the start, such as fruit. Blenders have only one blade. Food processors can, with just a change of the blade, shred raw potatoes or sliver almonds as easily as they can puree cooked peas. Most food processors come with several interchangeable blades.
• Blenders are generally taller than they are wide; food processors are wider to accommodate large, solid food items.

Related Products
Blenders	Coffee Grinders	Espresso Machines	Juicers	Meat Mincers