Introduction
Although there’s seemingly some overlap between the types of functions performed by a blender and those performed by a food processor, it’s important to note that there’re some key differences the two appliances. For those who enjoy experimenting with the culinary arts, it’s ideal to invest in both a food processor and a blender to maximize possibilities. This article will explain how to select the right type of each and what sorts of tasks each appliance is best suited for.
How Food Processors Work
Although designs may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, food processors are usually comprised of four parts that can be disassembled for easy cleaning: a container made of clear plastic, a lid for the container, an S-shaped removable blade, and a base in which the motor is housed. When operating, the food processor motor turns the blade at a high speed to chop, shred or mix food. Food processors also have a feed chute built into the top of the lid, which allows the user to safely add ingredients to the container (sometimes referred to as the bowl) while the blades are spinning. Most food processors also come with multiple blade attachments that grate, slice, chop, shred and puree foods. As far as controls are concerned, most machines simply have an on switch and an off switch, as well as a pulse function.
So what types of foods can you process in a food processor? Because of the shape of the container and the blade, this type of appliance works best for thicker ingredients that are either dry or semi-moist. Some common tasks you can perform with a food processor include pulse chopping vegetables, mixing dough or pie crust, and creating purees. The container design also makes it easy to remove the blade and use a scraping tool to clean the bowl, which is helpful for mixtures that are sticky or do not pour well.
How Blenders Work
A blender is typically comprised of a tall pitcher with a pouring spout, a tight-fitting lid, removable blades, and a motorized based. This type of appliance operates essentially the same way as a food processor, but the downward vortex created by the taller pitcher design works better for liquifying foods. A blender is ideal for tasks like crushing ice, making frozen drinks and smoothies, and creating soups and sauces. In terms of controls, blenders usually have a variety of speeds and settings, whereas food processors typically do not. Although you can pulse chop small amounts of dry ingredients like nuts, fruits and vegetables using a blender, if you’re looking for more precise, uniform chopping, a blender is not as well suited as a food processor for this task.
Differences Between Food Processors and Blenders
Both food processors and blenders differ depending on the model and the manufacturer. However, there are some key differences you can expect to find when comparing the two appliance types.
- Container Size and Capacity: Food processor containers usually hold slightly more than blender pitchers. The average food processor container has a capacity between six and 14 cups, while the average blender capacity can range from two cups for a personal blender to 14 cups for a standard-size blender. Keep in mind that blender pitchers will spill over while operating if they’re filled more than two-thirds of the way full, so their functional capacity may be significantly less than their advertised capacity. Ultimately, you’ll need to choose an appliance size that can handle the food quantities you typically work with.
- Blades: Blenders usually include only one blade. Food processors, on the other hand, typically come with multiple blades that can be switched out for various jobs, including chopping, pureeing, slicing and grating.
- Container Type: Food processors have a wide work bowl to accommodate their larger blade size and aid in the processing of dryer ingredients. Blenders have a tall pitcher that makes it easy to blend liquids and pour out the contents.
Pros and Cons of Each Appliance
- Food processor containers can be filled almost to capacity. Blender pitchers need room to operate properly. Most manufacturers recommend filling a blender pitcher only three-quarters full or less.
- Food processor blades are thin and wide, which doesn’t work well for crushing ice. Blender blades are shorter, sturdier and angled upward, which helps grind ice and other frozen ingredients more efficiently.
- Food processors are best suited for dry ingredients. Blenders work better when liquids are involved.
When to Use Which Appliance
Here’s a list of the most popular types of foods you can prepare using a blender and a food processor.
Blenders
- Crushed ice
- Smoothies
- Hollandaise
- Mayonnaise
- Frozen drinks
- Protein shakes
- Milkshakes
- Bisques
- Soups
- Sauces
- Applesauce and other fruit blends
- Nut milks
- Nut butters
- Frothed milk for coffee drinks
- Baby food
Food Processors
- Chopped, minced, shredded or grated ingredients like fruits, vegetables, cheese and more
- Pesto
- Hummus
- Tapenades
- Pie crust
- Pizza and pasta dough
- Breadcrumbs
- Salsa
- Minced meat
- Baby food