Dealing With Blenders
Blenders - Courtesy -fotosearch.com
Kitchen blenders are very useful tools because they can perform a number of tasks. Among their applications are:
• Crushing and mixing of ice for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Emulsification of mixtures
• Preparation of smooth purees such as vegetables and meat
• Reduction of small solids, such as seeds and spices, into powder
• Blending of the mixture of granules, powders, and liquids
• Dissolution of solids into liquids
The four blades of the blender inside the container perform the crushing and mixing. These are usually angled with two positioned higher than the other two. As they quickly spin, they perform a push and pull motion on the food inside the container crushing it, or if there are more than one type of food, blending them together.
Buying a Blender
Before buying a blender, determine the space in your kitchen where you will put it. This kitchen aide comes in a variety of types and sizes that your available space may well dictate which type and size you should buy. Height is of special concern.
You can buy a blender with either a metal or plastic base. Metal is more durable but this comes at a higher price. With plastic-based blenders, you have the option of selecting from a wide range of colors.
As for the containers, they can be either glass or plastic. Glass is more stable but it is heavier and more expensive. They are also more prone to breakage than the plastic jars.
Select one with settings that will suit your needs. Some types of blenders are specialized. They will work only in limited kinds of functions. Also, if there are special features that you need, such as the possibility of adding ingredients even when the blender is already running, check if they are available on the blender of your choice.
Using your Blender
Once you have washed and dried the jar, you are ready to blend your first puree or crushed ice and mix drinks. Before attaching the jar to the base of your blender, check if the blades can move freely. If they can, put in the jar, otherwise, disassemble the blade and check for obstructions and misalignments.
Plug the cord securely into an electrical outlet. Make sure that the voltage of your blender matches that output of your outlet. Fill the jar with the food you wish to process and turn on the switch.
If your puree is not smooth, turn off the blender and compress the food with any suitable utensil. This should get rid of air pockets causing uneven processing.
Blenders often overheat when they are used for long periods, causing the machine to shut down. If this happens, give it about 30 minutes to cool down and then try starting it again.
