The food processor will do the work for you in the kitchen, replacing several appliances. How to choose a food processor? What is included in the food processor

Hundreds of models are presented, and manufacturers are constantly working to improve their products. As a result, food processors appeared on the market of kitchen appliances, among which it is not easy for the consumer to make a choice.

How to choose

When choosing, first of all, it is important to focus not on cost, but on functionality. Consumers overpay for equipment with a large number of functions that may not be useful.

In pursuit of an inexpensive option, the buyer receives a model with a limited set of actions. In order not to make a mistake in choosing, it is important to understand how the types of such equipment differ and what you should focus on in the first place.

If you are purchasing a food processor for only two or three operations (for example -) - limit yourself to an inexpensive model with a standard set of functions.

If you want the unit to perform routine operations for you, you should look at a more expensive model with additional features, but it should be borne in mind that the more operations such equipment performs, the greater its dimensions and cost.

In the manufacture of food processors, three types of materials and their combinations are used:

• durable and expensive metal;
• short-lived plastic;
• glass.

The body of the technique itself is made of these materials in various combinations, but since the bowl is the main functional element of such a technique, pay attention to the material used to make this container.

Models with a plastic bowl cost less, however, during operation or washing, such an element is easily damaged, and it can be difficult to purchase an additional bowl.

Glass bowls are stronger and if handled with care they will last for decades. Such containers are neutral to chemical compounds, therefore, even those detergents that contain abrasive additives are used for washing.

This also applies to metal bowls, but such models are more expensive.

The efficiency of the device and for what purposes it can be used depends on this indicator. Non-professional devices have a power in the range of 450-1000 watts, but the higher this figure, the more expensive the model.

Low-power models are suitable for families of three to four people, and provided that such a technique will be used infrequently. If you use the equipment regularly and process a lot of products, it is better to pay attention to models with a power of 700 watts and higher.

Professional equipment can have a power of up to 2,000 watts, but at home this is unnecessary: ​​the equipment will not work with full resources, and you will only overpay.

This indicator determines for what purposes this or that model is better suited. When choosing a food processor from this position, consider the following nuances:

• Apparatus with a rotation speed of 10-12 thousand revolutions per minute can be used to grind even the hardest products.

With the appropriate attachments and high power, some modern models will grind even chicken bones.

• Models with a nozzle rotation speed of less than 8-6 thousand revolutions per minute are suitable for whipping, and there will be problems with grinding a large number of products.
• Today, every food processor has from two to 14 speeds, which are switched using buttons or knobs.

The average model operates at 5-6 rotation speeds, however, there are budget options with two speeds and expensive equipment in which the number of speeds is 10 or more.

The dimensions of the equipment depend on the method of storing additional nozzles: models that have built-in compartments for storing such tools take up a lot of space.

Some machines do not have these compartments, and you will have to decide where to store the attachments yourself. This is inconvenient, but after use, the equipment is easy to put away in a closet or on a shelf.

As for weight - usually such equipment is not heavier than 9 kilograms, unless we are talking about professional equipment. On average, the mass of such devices is 4-6 kilograms.

In this case, the choice depends on how often the device is used and where it is stored. If the combine is used regularly and at the end of work you need to put it in a closet or on a shelf, it is better to choose a lightweight model.

If the technique has its place on the table and there is no need to rearrange it, it is not necessary to approach the choice based on weight.

- one of the most popular varieties of combines that will save you time and effort on cutting meat.

This technique has pushed manual meat mincers out of the market, as it can be used to chop meat into pieces, cut into slices or make minced meat in a matter of minutes.

In addition to special knives for meat, some models can be equipped with special nozzles for stuffing casings for sausages or sausages.

Among such equipment, one of the most popular models is Kenwood KVC5030T.

Specifications:

• Power - 1100 Watts
• Bowl - 4.6 l
• Speeds - 6
• The set includes a meat grinder, spatula, 5 attachments
• Material - stainless steel, glass
• Weight - 8, 68 kg

Advantages

With a large number of functions, it is distinguished by affordable control, which every hostess will understand, in addition, Kenwood KVC5030T has other advantages:

• the bowl and body are made of metal;
• compact size;
• several number of functions;
• reliable and durable body design;
• low noise level;
• six speed settings.

Flaws:

Among the shortcomings, the high cost of the model and the relatively large weight can be noted, but the latter is a conditional minus, since due to the large mass, the device acquires stability and does not slide on the working surface during operation.

Judging by consumer reviews, this machine has no drawbacks, and most importantly, the Kenwood KVC5030T turned out to be affordable even for conservative housewives who are not used to electronic technology with many functions, switches and buttons.

Today, many people prefer not to buy bakery products in stores, but to make their own pastries at home.

Compact ones have long appeared on the kitchen appliances market, but housewives had to either buy dough or knead it by hand, which requires time and human resources.

With modern combines, the dough kneading process can be automated.

Food processors for kneading dough are multifunctional machines, they have a number of features:

1. Dough kneaders are options with at least 800 watts.
2. The size of the bowl of such models is larger than that of others, since the dough is kneaded in large batches.
3. In order to save money, some manufacturers make food processors for kneading dough with two or three speed settings, but they are enough to perform other standard operations.

One of the best models for such purposes is the Bosch MUM 56S40.

Specifications:

• Power - 900 Watts
• Speeds - 7
• Bowl volume - 3.9 l
• Equipment - citrus press, meat grinder
• Nozzles - 9

Advantages

• pulse mode;
• from three to six additional nozzles in the kit;
• additional functions (the combine can be used as a blender and as a juicer).

Shortcomings

• many plastic parts

Reviews

According to reviews of the shortcomings, there is a low landing of the knife under the meat grinder. There are complaints about the material - plastic is unreliable.

Professional food processors

Models of such equipment are divided into household and professional ones, and if the first ones can cope with cooking for one family, then they will not be suitable for operation at catering points.

Professional food processors have a number of features that allow the technique to cope with the tasks better:

1. Increased power. Among professional food processors there are models with a power of 1000-1300 watts.
2. Large bowls allow you to process more food.
3. Sets of special nozzles that are not found in household models. These are centrifuges, specific knives, blades, nets.
4. The control of such equipment is difficult to master, since with a large number of functions, the control panel is equipped with indicators, mode switches and buttons, and handling such combines requires practice.

Bosch MCM 62020 stands out among professional kitchen models.

Specifications

• Power - 1000 W
• Bowl - 3.9 l
• Complete set - citrus juicer, 7 nozzles
• Material - plastic

Advantages

• silent operation;
• small dimensions;
• quick assembly and disassembly;
• equipment is easy to clean even in inaccessible places;
• processing of large volumes of products.

Flaws

Due to the design features, this model also has a number of disadvantages that manufacturers could not eliminate and minimized:

• impossibility of replacement of a nozzle in the course of work;
• the device scatters products during operation;
• low mounting location for nozzles;
• high price.

Reviews

Catering workers who have ever used such a unit note: despite such disadvantages, the Bosch MCM 62020 increases productivity, and the reliability and endurance of such equipment cannot be compared with other machines.

It is believed that the food processor is a "rough" technique that can crumble, chop, chop and mix food in seconds. But he is not capable of fine operations, and a person has to cut fruit or vegetables beautifully.

Despite constant improvements in this regard, food processor manufacturers cannot ensure that the machine cuts food uniformly and evenly.

There are dozens of such models on the home appliance market, including the Bosch MCM 68885.

Specifications

• Power - 1250 W
• Bowl - 3.9 l
• Complete set - disk for cutting cubes, 8 nozzles
• Material - plastic

Advantages

• low noise level and complete absence of vibration;
• availability of new additional nozzles in household appliance stores.

Flaws

• Bosch MCM 68885 dimensions are relatively large when compared with other similar ones;
• bowls are made of fragile plastic;
• The device is difficult to disassemble for cleaning.

The most desirable all-rounder in any kitchen is the food processor, a household appliance that specializes in food processing. Grind, mix, chop and even squeeze juice - this device is capable of much. But in order to understand which particular device from the numerous range on the market is suitable for your kitchen, you need to have an idea of ​​​​what a food processor is and what functions it has.

Definitely, the technique has French roots: many assume that its inventors were the monks from this country, who used similar choppers for winemaking. According to another version, Karl Sontheimer, again a Frenchman, became the "father" of the unit. And another representative of this nation, Pierre Verdun, founder of Robot Coupe, is "suspected" of introducing technology into everyday kitchen life.

Be that as it may, the invention turned out to be really useful. Especially when you consider that it combines the functions of a large number of kitchen appliances:

• graters;
• blender
• meat grinders;
• vegetable cutters;
• juicers;
• mixer.

Almost all such devices (even being from different manufacturers) are similar in design to each other. Some of them have a couple of bowls, others - a large number of nozzles. The differences between food processors are as follows.

1. bowl size. This parameter forms not only the number of eaters for whom food is prepared in the technique - even more products will fit here.
2. Device power directly depends on its capabilities - most often it ranges from 550 to 1000 watts. For example, when working with a test, it cannot be small.
3. For each product, it is recommended that you use your own speed- for some models, their range reaches 14. This also affects the number of dishes that can be cooked using the technique.
4. extended functional, which determines the possibility of the food processor. As a rule, in such models there is an additional complete set of nozzles.
5. Convenience and safety of work.

Classification of such units

There are the following types of food processors:

• multifunctional options;
• set "meat grinder + blender";
• mini models;
• manual devices;
• highly specialized: for a specific cut.

All in one

This option wins over all other types of its capabilities - there are all possible options here - from a grinder to a blender. It implies the presence of a speed switch, a large bowl and power that exceeds 700 watts.

Most of the available models in the market range have this basic kit: disc grater, stainless steel knife, dough mixer, disc emulsifier. The following additions may be present: a knife with a double blade, a blender cup, a citrus press and a juicer (in the form of a centrifuge).

One of the main advantages of a versatile and multifunctional device is a large bowl, which can be made of plastic, glass or stainless steel. Often such utensils are removable, and therefore convenient to care for and store.

The main bonus is the processing of a considerable amount of products. In addition, you can always purchase additional interchangeable nozzles. Usually, manufacturers try to additionally protect devices from overheating and breakdown. By the way, despite the bulkiness, all components are easy to remove and rinse if necessary.

There are also certain disadvantages. The obvious ones include the non-mobility of the device and its large dimensions, which stops owners of small kitchens from buying such appliances. Separately, we are talking about the cost - many of the proposals are not at all from the budget ones.

Meat grinder + blender

The purpose of such a device is to help in the preparation of various meat dishes and mashed potatoes. This will save you the purchase of two different devices. Reception, even in the combine itself, different types of components can be found.

1. Meat grinders here can be auger and impact. In the first case, the meat will guide the spiral shaft (further to the knife and grate). In the shock version, the cutting of the product will take place with the help of special knives that expel excess liquid from the meat.
2. Used in this unit blender can be submersible or stationary. In the first case, it is completely lowered into the bowl, and it has the maximum effect on all the products present. The stationary one will only mix and whip the ingredients on the surface.

What is good about such a device? It is its presence that will make the minced meat of the required density, regardless of the density of the meat, the veined cartilage present in it. However, with the bone structure it is more difficult - if even small parts hit, the technique will stop.

Actual advice - in such models, you need to focus on power from 600 watts. Often options are also equipped with nozzles for squeezing juice. And such a combine will cost less than an electric one.

There are also disadvantages - the design acquires additional weight. And at the meat grinder itself, the power will be several times less than usual. Separately, it is worth mentioning the devices for such equipment.

1. Perforation have a hole diameter of 3 to 8 mm. The smallest size is suitable for pates, and the larger one is for ground chicken or beef. Pork, dried fruits, hard cheeses, etc. are ground on grates with holes larger than 8 mm.
2. There are fixtures for sausage making. With their help, the shells are filled and the corresponding products are prepared.
3. necessary to obtain hollow variants.

Kebe nozzle for hollow products

miniature models

These options are suitable for small kitchens. You must immediately be prepared for the fact that they will be very limited functionality. The volume of the bowl will not exceed 2.5 liters, and the power will not rise above 650 watts. The cost is also quite affordable, and the device itself copes well with the tasks assigned to it.

Usually, a fruit and vegetable chopper is included in the basic set of such a device. There are also options with options for kneading dough, squeezing juice and meat grinder.

Hand harvesters

Such a device is not automated, and some effort must be made to start it. There are some positives here too:

• independence from the power grid;
• mobility (you can take it with you to the country);
• full control at all stages of the process.

Highly specialized devices

Most often, such a food processor has narrowly limited functions - this is, to a greater extent, cutting products in the form of straws, squares and cubes. But besides this, some models have nozzles for curly cutting. Often, these units are supplemented with a juicer, meat grinder and blender.

Such choppers are a device with one bowl and an electric drive. There are knives in the bowl, you can also insert other nozzle options there. The principle of operation is as follows: products are placed inside and closed with a lid. The more powerful the device, the more efficient the processing is. It is worth listening to the following recommendations:

• for solid products use a separate nozzle;
• the lid must be tightly closed, otherwise the device will not function.

Of the bonuses - such a device convenient to store, it saves a lot of space. Also, the harvester is inexpensive and easy to operate and manage. It is mobile and safe to use, it can be used even daily, processing small volumes of products.

However, such a device will not be able to cope with cutting meat and cheese so that they turn out to be even with the same plates. It is difficult for him to process large pieces of food. To grind various kinds of nuts, coffee beans and cereals, the device should also not be turned on. It is not recommended to knead the dough. And many users are not satisfied with exactly few speeds device operation.

What devices can be included in such a device? Among them:

• disk version of the knife, which has diagonal cuts (chopping cabbage and salads);
• disc for cutting french fries;
• cube cutting (disk) for cheese and vegetables;
• disc with small holes (cut into strips);
• multifunctional double-sided disc (one of the sides will cut into slices, the second is needed for rubbing);
• double-sided slicing disc;
• disc grater (prepares vegetable puree);
• another disc grater, but for hard cheeses and chocolate.

Dough mixers

The use of these devices is relevant for those who love to bake. It can work with both unleavened and yeast dough, shortbread, aspic and hard - in a word, any kind and texture. In addition to kneading itself, other useful options are often present - from a blender to curly nozzles(which is useful when working with cookies).

It is very convenient when the nozzle is represented by a hook, and not by a shovel - in this case, flour and dough practically do not remain on the walls of the bowl of electrical appliances.

Juicer and other features

It is impossible not to tell about another talent - the ability of technology to squeeze juice. In this case, the smart machine will be presented in such variants: interchangeable parts in the form of a citrus press and a centrifugal juicer, or one of them. Press- This is a ribbed rotating cup. It is worth pressing a citrus against it, as the juice flows into a special compartment. In case of centrifugal option the juice will be squeezed out due to the rapid rotation of the sieve in the cylinder. After that, the liquid will go into one container, the waste into another.

You should know that:

• the press in the combine is not intended for squeezing fresh from hard varieties of fruits;
• the centrifugal juicer has a filter that will help separate the seeds from the juice and peel particles;
• the volume of the press version is 1 liter, which distinguishes it from the centrifuge configuration.

It does not do without minuses - in comparison with a specialized device, at the output of the combine, half the juice is obtained.

In addition to the juicer and other advantages, the device can do the following:

• make ice cream from ingredients pre-frozen for a day;
• grind coffee beans;
• using a mini-mill, grind spices, garlic, onions, nuts (when a minimum amount of food is required);
• finally, there is a special equipment that will help prepare tomato juice, sauce, pasta (separating the seeds from the main mass).

So, a food processor can become an indispensable tool in any kitchen. For home use, it is better to choose models from Kenwood, Bosh, Philips, Moulinex or Zelmer brands. More professional models (for example, for working in a cafe) include Ariete, Berlinger and, again, Bosch with Kenwood. In any case, before purchasing, you should study all the functions in order to choose the option that is right for you in terms of equipment and abilities.

By the way, it is quite possible to buy many nozzles for expensive equipment separately.

Kirill Sysoev

Calloused hands do not know boredom!

Content

Numerous electrical "helpers" have settled and taken root in the kitchen. Users appreciated the convenience of a universal machine, which combines the work of several devices at once and helps save effort, time, and money.

What is a kitchen machine

Among the multifunctional kitchen appliances, the household food processor is well known. In relation to the kitchen, the names machine and combine are often identified. The machine is distinguished by greater power, bowl volume and dimensions. Functionally, they practically do not differ from each other. A food processor is the generic name for these appliances. With it, you can chop, chop, grind, beat, knead, squeeze. At the same time, the device has a compact size.

Universal kitchen machine

The functions of a meat grinder, mixer, shredder, mixer, blender and other appliances combine universal kitchen machines. Their purpose is to optimize time and space. There are two categories of these appliances: food service machines and home appliances. The capacity of the home machine bowl is from 1.5 liters to 6.7 liters. Structurally, devices of both categories are equipped with a single drive and replaceable nozzles.

Kitchen machines for home

A home processor or a home kitchen machine is the dream of many housewives. The cost of the device directly depends on the number of functions. Having studied the components, you can buy an inexpensive harvester with the prospect of expanding functionality by purchasing additional attachments. Future users first need to determine the need to use the combine in everyday life.

Functionality is related to the power of the device. If it is purchased only for chopping vegetables, making juice, then 0.5 kW is the optimal power. If you need a meat grinder function, the power must be at least 1 kW. An important factor is the number of speeds: they can be from 4 to 14. Culinary preferences and cooking technology will prompt the choice of the desired number of speeds.

With nozzles

The most delicious pasta is handmade. It makes no sense to buy a separate device for their preparation. A food processor with a pasta attachment is a great alternative to expensive stationary appliances, it is more compact and performs the same functions. The nozzle helps to cook about 14 types of pasta, helps to cut dough products in order to decorate sweet pastries.

This and other processor attachments for the kitchen allow you to significantly expand its functionality. Depending on the model, they may be included in the kit, they can be purchased additionally as needed. For example, a dough attachment may not be needed immediately; its purchase can be envisaged for the future in order to knead the dough quickly and efficiently.

A healthy diet involves eating plenty of vegetables and fruits. Vegetable cutter, multi-cutter will help you quickly chop food. These devices are used for cutting into strips, slices. The kit includes a dicing disc. Knives and graters are made of stainless steel, so vitamins are preserved in fruits and vegetables during cutting.

mixer machines

The use of a mixer is not limited to mixing products. Lush biscuit, pancake dough, air cream for cakes, berry and cream soufflés, homemade marshmallows, ice cream - all these delicacies are prepared by mixing and whipping products. A blender is not always suitable for these purposes; a kitchen mixer will cope with this task much more efficiently.

The multifunctional food processor is equipped with a bowl, a whisk attachment, an emulsion nozzle. When choosing a processor, you should pay attention to the height of the bowl. This is an important characteristic, when whipping the volume of any mixture increases, when mixing liquid products, the mixture should not be splashed. A family of 4-6 people will need a bowl with a volume of 3-3.5 liters. The bowl can be made of plastic, glass, stainless steel.

With a meat grinder

The best food processor should help you cook your favorite dishes, meet the culinary preferences of the owners. In food processors, the functions of preparing juice and minced meat are rarely combined. A meat grinder for a kitchen machine is much more often in demand. Minced meat is used to prepare a variety of dishes, it is in demand in the preparation of dietary and baby food. Everyone's favorite homemade cutlets, cabbage rolls, meatballs, dumplings are prepared using minced meat.

Determining parameters for choosing a device with a meat grinder:

• power (not less than 1 kW);
• utility knife;
• their stainless steel bowl;
• rubberized legs;
• quiet work.

With bowl heater

A bright innovation was the kitchen combine with heating. The machine not only mixes, whips products, the induction heating element creates the right temperature for their preparation. Combines with bowl heating have already gained a leading position in the tops of sales. The induction hob saves space, time and dishes. It provides the desired cooking mode with an accuracy of 2 ° C; in the heating mode, the function of mixing the products is provided.

The number of nozzles determines the functionality of the device and its cost. You need to select them depending on your culinary preferences. The standard kit includes:

• disc grater;
• spice grinder;
• citrus juicer;
• nozzle for french fries;
• nozzle for cutting slices;
• nozzle for kneading dough;
• berry press.

What does a kitchen machine do

When ordering or buying an appliance, you need to find out what is included in the food processor. Cutting vegetables, fresh juice, ground coffee are just some of its functions. One device helps to quickly prepare a homemade feast, process vegetables for winter preparations, and it is easy to follow the principles of a healthy diet with it. With a food processor:

• easy to whip cream, cream, proteins;
• cook minced meat;
• chop vegetables for salad, stew, baking, stewing;
• cut cheese, meat products;
• make fresh, fruit cocktails;
• prepare the sauce
• knead the dough.

How to choose a kitchen machine for your home

The home appliance market is represented by numerous kitchen processors, each of which is in demand by buyers. Therefore, the choice of a kitchen machine is individual. Before making this important purchase, you should carefully analyze the technical characteristics of the models, their functionality, customer reviews, photos and other important information.

Manufacturer

A review of the information shows that the top models of food processors belong to the global companies Bosch, Braun, Kenwood, Philips. The developers of these companies are constantly improving kitchen appliances, expanding the functionality of the machines. Japanese SUPRA, French Moulinex, Tefal, German Krups are not inferior in quality to kitchen products. Worthy of the attention of buyers is the Turkish manufacturer Sinbo, the American KitchenAid.

The Russian brand VITEK is very popular in the kitchen appliances market. Multifunctional food processors at affordable prices are offered by domestic manufacturers Elekma, Energia KP, Foxtrot's trademark Le Chef. Domestic manufacturers occupy a worthy place in the market of kitchen appliances.

A type

Food processors are more often associated with bulky appliances, but many modern models are ergonomic, compact, and convenient. All models can be divided into three types: shredders, traditional and universal. In the top of sales among shredder models SUPRA CHS-1080, Kenwood KH 180A. Top models of traditional harvesters are Braun FX 3030, Philips HR7605. Bosch MUM 4855, Philips HR 7768 are leading among universal machines.

Housing material

High quality plastic and stainless steel are the materials that are used to make the body of food processors. Models with a plastic case are more in demand. It is easier to clean, more affordable. Models with a stainless steel case are more durable, more reliable, but have significant weight and are more expensive. It is better to choose plastic nozzles for making juices and mashed potatoes, graters and knives for chopping vegetables - made of high-quality stainless steel in order to preserve vitamins. Meat knives should be metal and well sharpened.

bowl material

The combine bowl is made of glass, plastic, stainless steel. Important functional characteristics are impact resistance and thermal stability. It is worth giving preference to glass and steel bowls. They are easy to clean, do not absorb odors, do not interact with products. The process of mixing, grinding products is visible in the glass bowl, it can be placed on a hot stove, in the oven and prepared foods can be cooked in it.

Number of speeds

Small models of food processors offer two speeds - for processing soft and hard foods. More expensive, multifunctional models have 12 speed settings. Multi-speed models have a step switch for speed adjustment, the combine can have smooth adjustment. For the processing of each type of product, the optimal speed is selected.

bowl capacity

The bowls differ in volume, for compact models it does not exceed 2.5 liters, multifunctional harvesters are equipped with bowls of 2.5 liters or more. There are models equipped with bowls of different materials. A plastic bowl is included in the package of relatively inexpensive combines. When choosing the volume of the bowl, be sure to take into account the number of products that you plan to process, the number of family members.

Power

The engine power range is from 200 to 1000 W, the latest models have power from 1200 W. For the efficient operation of the food processor, it is not so much the power that is important, but its ratio with the volume of the bowl. For a bowl up to 1.5 liters, a power of 250-300 W is sufficient, for a volume of 2 liters - at least 350 W, for 3.5 liters - 750 W or more. The correct ratio of engine power and bowl volume will ensure the durability of the kitchen appliance.

Maximum rotation speed

The food processor engine is capable of providing a speed of 12-15 thousand revolutions per minute. Simple models operate at one speed, more advanced ones have a special switch to adjust the speed depending on the type of food and cooking technology. Additional characteristics include operation in the "Pulse" mode, "Short-term acceleration of the engine."

Overload protection

When choosing a model of a food processor, it is very important to pay attention to the presence of a fuse to protect against engine overloads and overheating. During the processing of a large number of products, with prolonged use, when using the high-speed mode, even the most powerful engine overheats, which can lead to its failure. Therefore, additional protection is required.

Rating of kitchen machines

With a huge selection of models, it is not easy to determine which kitchen machine is better. You should start by viewing photos of models, reviews and your own preferences.

Name: Bosch MSM 62020

Brief description: powerful multifunctional combine (1000 W), volume 3.9 l, blender available, smooth speed control.

Price: 7262 rubles.

Pros: citrus press, 7 special nozzles, for a large number of products, a compartment for a power cord, a place to store nozzles.

Cons: none.

For fans of fresh juices, cocktails, french fries.

Name: Braun FX 3030

Brief description: powerful combine (800 W), volume 2 l, 8 nozzles in total: for shredding products, for kneading dough, universal knife.

Price: 11030 rubles.

Pros: universal juicer, plastic chopper, bowl depth.

Cons: plastic case, device width.

For lovers of dough products, this model is worth buying.

Name: Kenwood KMC 57008

Brief description: powerful combine (1000 W), volume 4.6 l, 7 speeds for kneading and whipping, the presence of a blender.

Price: 71890 rubles.

Pros: stainless steel bowl, glass bowl, overload protection.

Cons: high cost.

Followers of rational nutrition will appreciate the functionality of this model.

Name: Bosch 4406

Brief description: power 500 W, volume 3.9 l, 4 speeds, the presence of a meat grinder, 7 nozzles.

Price: 5668 rubles.

Pros: nozzle for dough, grater, straw shredder.

Cons: plastic case, low power.

The compact model is a popular shredder model.

Name: Philips HR2505/90

Brief description: power 500 W, volume 1.1 l, 2 nozzles (graters).

Price: 2850 rubles.

Pros: automatic speed selection, compact size.

Cons: plastic case.

Today, work in the kitchen is very difficult to imagine without technology. The problem is not that we cannot cope without it and remain hungry. Most likely, the fact is that it is stupid to limit your capabilities and not save precious time. For example, an electric kettle will provide you with boiling water much earlier than a metal one for a stove, which means that you will be able to drink your favorite tea or invigorating coffee more often.

Why deny the available benefits of technological progress, especially when it comes to preparing a festive table or a gala dinner? It is often simply impossible to redo this work with your hands in one day, so the housewives resort to electric “saviors” when they need to rub, cut, squeeze, knead, mix ... And even better than these appliances lying separately in your kitchen can only be multifunctional food processor.

Why a food processor?

The irony of life is that, as a rule, the food processor appears in the family without her desire. Such a unit has become a popular impressive birthday and new year gift. So it turns out that other people choose your “main support” in cooking for you, who, in turn, may have completely different motives. In any case, the food processor is the solution to minimize all the working chaos. Once you understand the value of order, the food processor will inspire you to experiment. Even sophisticated food lovers are surprised by the variety and new interpretations of old dishes.

What are the functions of a food processor?

The set of functions directly depends on the chosen model and its cost. Of course, there are both standard versions and enhanced ones. In fact, a food processor consists of three components: a motor, a bowl, a set of nozzles. It is the last group of elements that determines the degree of "tricked out" technology. It includes:

• Grater. With this attachment, you can quickly chop and chop vegetables and fruits. The gauge of the cut will depend on the size of the holes.
• Knife. In fact, this nozzle is also designed for cutting, chopping and chopping, however, already meat and minced meat. In this case, the degree of grinding is determined by the power, and therefore the speed of the food processor. Knives should be made of stainless steel, so they will serve you well.
• Multimixer, or otherwise mini-mill / mini-meat grinder. A useful accessory if you often need to chop garlic or chop herbs. Easily and simply, he grinds nuts - in a word, any small portions of food.
• Disk emulsifier. Imagine, with this nozzle you can cook homemade mayonnaise, whip cream, make delicious sauces, dough for your pleasure. The best part is that the kitchen stays clean, because all the work takes place inside under a closed lid.
• Press. The press is a nozzle that will become a faithful assistant in the preparation of fruit or mashed potatoes. However, you can cook mashed potatoes from any vegetables and fruits, the main thing is to remove the bones in advance. The density of the mass will depend on the sieve-lattice.
• Meat grinder. This attachment in a food processor is essentially not much different from a standard electric meat grinder. The only difference is that the meat grinder in the food processor can be supplemented by purchasing new knives and attachments. The advantages of a built-in meat grinder over a separate one are that you do not have to frantically search for a suitable container for the product. Cooking takes place in the same bowl of the food processor and at the end you just have to wash it and rinse the knives.
• Dough hook. A terrific find for those who often prepare dough is the dough kneading hook. It is a small spatula or a curved spiral that allows you to evenly mix the dough. In this case, it will not be smeared on the walls of the bowl, flour or other ingredients will not remain on it separately. Manufacturers claim that the kneading knife allows you to get a completely homogeneous mass.
• Mill. A few centuries ago, people simply could not afford to dream that a real windmill would appear in everyone's kitchen and be much smaller than its real prototype. Times have changed, and today, with the help of a special nozzle, which is a steel millstone, everyone can get homemade flour. The mill allows you to erase any cereal to a powder state.
• Ice cream maker. From the name it is already clear what delicacy can be prepared with this nozzle. Usually, to make ice cream, you need to place the nozzle in the freezer for a day in advance. So it gets the right temperature. Next, you mix everything you need according to the recipe and turn on the freezing device.
• Juicer. The juicer will allow you to get fresh juice from vegetables and fruits. The volume of liquid, the squeezing speed will depend on the specific model.
• Blender. One of the most requested features of a food processor is the blender. With it, you, first of all, will be able to mix completely different products and bring them to a homogeneous consistency. It is great for making cocktails, as well as baby food. In addition, it will allow you to crush the ice to small crumbs, which will be a nice addition to summer drinks.

Which food processor do you need?

When you arrive at the store, the variety of choices will not leave you indifferent. True, among the numerous models with different characteristics and prices it is easy to get lost. In order not to become a “victim of marketing”, you need to understand what and how, and most importantly, what you need.

Compact food processor and multifunctional

Perhaps the first criterion that you must decide for yourself is the type of combine. Think carefully and decide how much and what type of work you will give him. If you want to cut vegetables quickly and easily, as well as cook minced meat, the compact model will satisfy the minimum requirements. When it comes to more complex work, you need a multifunctional food processor.

What is the food processor bowl made of?

The food processor bowl can be made of glass, metal, or plastic. The choice is yours, you must choose a shock-resistant material. If you frequently freeze food or reheat in the microwave, the material of the bowl should allow you to do so. Experts recommend choosing glass if you mainly cook vegetables and fruits. The metal bowl, in turn, is perfect for meat and minced meat. By the way, many manufacturers offer several containers in the kit, besides, if you wish, you can buy them in addition.

Bowl resistance to temperature

Food processor containers can be divided into three categories: low temperature resistant, high temperature resistant, impact resistant. The former allow, if necessary, to freeze pate, juice or minced meat directly in the bowl up to -50 degrees. The second group can withstand up to +80 degrees, but it is not safe to pour boiling water into such a container. Impact-resistant bowls won't fail if accidentally dropped, but they can shatter if you're intentionally testing them.

Choose the size of the bowl

We consider the following characteristic of a food processor - the volume of the working bowl. This indicator should not be confused with the concept of "total volume". For example, a 1.5 liter bowl will allow you to knead 750 g of dough, process 2 kg of dry vegetables, 1.5 liters of liquid. Pay attention to the fact that some models do not allow you to work comfortably with a small amount of products. In this case, they must be equipped with mini-mills. When choosing the volume of the bowl, you must evaluate your own needs, or rather the number of people for which you usually cook. If the family is large, you need a larger bowl accordingly.

Choosing the power of the food processor

The power of a food processor is one of the defining characteristics of its work, however, it cannot be estimated without correlation with the volume of the bowl. The fact is that the power of the combine is, in other words, the amount of processed product in one go. For this reason, it is essential that the power ratio of your machine is ideal in relation to the size of the bowl. The optimal ratio is 300 watts per 1.5 liters; 400 W per 2 liters; 700 W for 3 liters. Therefore, if you are faced with choosing two models with the same volume, give preference to where the power is higher.

How many food processor speeds do you need?

The power of the food processor also affects its operating modes, the number of speeds. The number of speeds can be up to five, which is a range of revolutions from 15 to 12,000 revolutions per minute. It is not difficult to guess that the more speeds a combine has, the faster it will cope with the task. Modern food processors are equipped with a pulsed mode of operation. What does it mean? If you need to increase the speed of work, you press the corresponding button and hold it as long as necessary. Moreover, the rotation speed will depend on the strength of your pressing.

Buyer Tips

As a rule, food processors are criticized for their bulkiness. Allegedly, they take up too much space, numerous nozzles are inconvenient to store, and you don’t want to get this entire unit from the far shelf for the sake of one salad. Of course, you need to think in advance how and where to store large kitchen appliances, as well as assess your needs and, if necessary, purchase a compact model. The second point that you should pay attention to is the ease of use of the design. It is especially important that the attachments and bowls are easy to remove and wash quickly. Sometimes the subsequent thorough washing of each small detail stops the housewives from using it again. Of course, cleaning cannot be avoided, but you can ensure your convenience in this matter in advance. It is also worth understanding that by choosing a metal bowl of a food processor, you burden yourself with more thorough care. Water drops and fingerprints are clearly visible on such a surface. If aesthetic purity is in your interests, you will have to take extra care of it, however, this is not so difficult. Have fun experimenting!

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