It is quite unfortunate that a large part of the consumer percentage today still do not know the difference between a food processor and a blender that they use these two interchangeably for the knowledge that it pretty much does the same thing.

Come to think of it, both actually turn large chunks of food into smaller particles. This is probably exactly what confuses consumers. In fact, you might have had both a food processor and blender for years yet still does not know when to use which one.

The easiest way to differentiate these two is to remember that food processor is best for everything else when a simple knife just would not do the trick to get food prepared the fastest way possible while blenders are perfect for anything liquid where you need a smooth consistency. Another great tip here is to remember that food processors can leak whereas blenders will not leak given that you did not forget to put the lid on making it more preferable for working with liquids.

Let us go deeper into understanding the function of each one and how it works for us to understand them better and wisely determine which one you really need.

Understanding the Food Processor

A food processor basically is that versatile kitchen appliance that takes a lot of heavy load from you by chopping, slicing, shredding, grinding, even pureeing just about any solid food. Through this way, you can do other necessary things in the kitchen or prepare some other dish while the food processor does its job without making your shoulder ache.

Food processors usually come in different sizes with a variety of accessories or attachments. Basically, it has a motor inside a heavy chassis, bowl with lid, and a feed tube where all the solid food will go in. The food processor attachments are usually different kinds of blade or discs which serves its particular purpose. These blades and/or discs are usually made of metal or stainless steel since they will be dealing with mostly solid food.

The blades and/or discs are also updated and food processor makers continue to create and introduce new ones to the market all for the benefit of those who love working in the kitchen.

A great example where you can use the food processor efficiently is making salsa. Some users prefer making this stage by stage which will warrant you to use a small bowl with lid quite a few times. However, this ensures different textures which make salsa great for nachos or tacos. Some prefer the easier way of simply throwing all the ingredients in and then use the pulse action feature to get the desired consistency.

Understanding Blenders

 

Blenders have always been a common kitchen staple even in the olden days. Our great grandparents use it to turn anything smaller or liquefied. Whether it is ice, fruits, vegetables, and even almonds, the blender pretty much does the trick.

 

Technically, blenders should be used for liquid, almost liquid, or soft solids like fruits and vegetables. However, since blenders come with varying energy or horsepower, it would basically depend on the brand and model. Some blenders feature one horsepower or equivalent to 746 watts while some feature higher horsepower.

 

While blenders may be able to crush hard, solid food, operating blenders at extremely high horsepower can lead to overheating, malfunction, and give way to failed motor parts and/or accessories. What most consumers do not understand is that blenders are not really designed for heavy work.

 

Yes it may be stated in the blender you just recently bought that it has a maximum capacity of one horsepower. Now take note of the word “maximum”. That means the blender can reach that power but not on a daily basis. Just like any other appliance, if you continue pushing limits to its maximum capacity each and every time, chances are you will encounter problems sooner than later.

 

If you are decided on getting a blender since you make salad sauces and dressings almost every single day, check out the watts and not the horsepower rating. Experts say that higher watts equate to a smoother consistency and a longer motor life. However, be prepared that it will probably cost you more electricity too.

 

What We Think

 

Most households today have blenders rather than food processors. However, this fact does not go on to say or prove that blenders are more preferable simply because they have different uses which you should know by now. Experts will say that if you are a foodie and loves creating delicious stuff in the kitchen that you need to have both kitchen appliances.

 

That would be the ideal scenario but it is also a fact that not everyone has the luxury of kitchen space and fat bank account to splurge on kitchen items. So if you have to choose for some reason, choose the one which you think you will use more depending on what you usually cook and what your family and friends want.