How to Choose the Right Food Processor

One of the best ways to take the hassle out of preparing meals is to use a food processor. Not only do food processors save time spent on chopping, but they also help you prepare ingredients in just the right way, whether that means whipping cream into soft peaks or making hearty purees and smoothies- Food processors can do it all. Here is our range of best food processors available on Mena Hub. 

If you buy a food processor and don't know where to start, you have come to the right spot. There are so many options out there, all priced differently and have different features that may or may not apply to your kitchen needs. This guide will help you pick the suitable food processor with information on choosing the right food processor for your kitchen. 

1) Size/Capacity

The size of your food processor will depend on what you plan on doing with it. Small, hand-held devices are best for chopping, mincing and blending small amounts of food at a time. Medium-sized models are generally used in restaurants because they can handle significantly larger volumes of food, but they're also suitable for preparing meals at home. On the other hand, if you plan on feeding more than two people regularly, go for a large model with an extra-wide mouth. The larger ones even come with attachments that let you shred and grate ingredients, just like a hand grater or cheese grater would.

2) Speed

In many cases, a speedier appliance will allow you to get a job done faster. For example, if you frequently prepare meals on a tight schedule, spending extra money on a more powerful processor may be worth it. It can also be beneficial if you want your food processor to perform double-duty as a blender or mixer. However, for everyday uses in small households, there's usually no need for extra power. Most food processors are capable of creating small batches in an efficient amount of time. You will have to decide what features are most important when picking out your food processor—whether that means paying attention to speed or trying out different brands until you find one that blends well with other appliances in your kitchen.

3) Ease of Use

The benefit of owning a food processor is that you can make large batches of fresh salsa, sauce or hummus at once. But if you don't have easy access to your machine, it won't be of much use. So when choosing a food processor, make sure it comes with clear instructions for setting up and using it. Preferably, look for models that are highly rated for ease of use. Reviewers may also give you tips on how they find their machine easiest to operate.

4) Portability

One of the essential qualities of a food processor is its portability. Suppose you want to use your food processor whenever and wherever, then consider buying lightweight and can easily fit into your cupboard. It would be best to keep in mind whether or not you will need your appliance with you on the go, as some are bulky and not ideal for travelling. 

Bulky food processors are ideal for restaurants and commercial kitchens where portability is not a great deal. However, If you want something that can be used at home but will sometimes accompany you on holidays or weekends away from home, look for a product with an attached bowl and is light enough for easy transportation.

5) Body

Food processors come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. When it comes to food processors, sturdiness plays an important role. Choose a unit with a robust body and broader bases. Because heavy loads can produce powerful vibrations, a broad base will provide stability and prevent your food processor from moving on your kitchen counter. 

6) Controls and functioning 

The more complicated a food processor's controls and functions, the harder it will be to learn how to use it. After all, you want something simple and intuitive enough for even someone new at food preparation to get used to quickly. So, for example, if you're looking for a commercial or industrial grade food processor, go for a unit that is easy to use and comes with easy-to-follow instructions. 

7) Warranty

This can give you a good indication of a brand's trustworthiness. The more extended the warranty and what they cover indicate how much confidence the manufacturer has in their product. For example, one company may offer a 1-year warranty on parts and labor while another might only provide a 30-day warranty for specific models. Choose a brand that offers the most extended warranty on the food processor to get the best worth on your investment.

8) Brand and Price

Before getting a food processor, it's a good idea to decide on a budget and a brand. Firstly, decide on a price range that you want to spend on a food processor. You will also want to figure out what you will use your food processor for and how often you will use it. After that, check all the major and trustworthy brands and their models. Finally, take these factors into account and decide which model will work best for you. 

9) Attachments and Accessories

Another thing to consider is what attachments and accessories come with your food processor. This is a vital factor, as many high-end food processors don't have essential attachments like dough, slicing, or grating. This might not be a big deal for someone using their food processor once in a while, but if you plan on using it several times per week or more frequently, look for one that comes with attachments like blades, and jars etc. 

Final words

This blog has covered the ten most important factors that one should look for in a food processor before purchasing. Our recommendation is not to try to save on a food processor too much. Since this item is something that you will not buy too often, it is wise to invest in a better quality that will serve you better and last longer.