A food processor is super handy in the kitchen. It can chop veggies, mix dough, and whip up sauces – cutting down on cooking time and making everything taste the same each time. However, with so many options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming.
In this blog, we’ll go over the main things to think about when you're buying a food processor. That way, you can make a smart choice and get one that really does what you need it to do in the kitchen.
1. Motor Power
The motor is what makes the whole thing work, and its strength determines what it can handle.
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Tasks like chopping herbs or mixing salad dressing require around 400–600 watts of power.
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For tasks like slicing vegetables or shredding cheese, you'll likely want 700–900 watts.
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If you plan on kneading dough, crushing nuts, or grinding meat, go for 1000 watts or more.
Quick Hint: Think about what you usually cook. A stronger motor can do more and handle tougher tasks without any problem.
2. Bowl Size
Food processors typically come with bowls of varying sizes, ranging from 3 cups to over 14 cups. The size you need depends on how many people you cook for & how often you cook:
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If it’s just you or two people: 3–5 cup bowls should be fine.
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For a family of 3–5: 7–9 cup bowls are good for everyday cooking.
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If you have a big family or like to have people over: 12–14 cup bowls let you make big batches all at once.
Quick Hint: It's not a bad idea to get a bowl a bit bigger than you think you need, just in case you want to make a lot of something.
3. Attachments and Accessories
A food processor that can do a lot comes with different parts for different jobs. Some common ones are:
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Slicing disc: For getting even slices of fruits and veggies.
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Shredding disc: Works well for cheese, carrots, or cabbage.
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Chopping/mixing blade: For chopping stuff, making sauces, or pureeing.
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Dough blade: For mixing bread or pizza dough.
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Whisk add-on: For whipping cream or egg whites.
Good Thing: The more add-ons, the more stuff it can do, which saves space and means you don't need as many kitchen tools.
4. Speed Options
Most food processors allow you to adjust the speed and feature a pulse option.
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Low and high speeds: So you can chop gently or mix everything really well.
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Pulse option: Gives you short bursts for more control, so you don’t overdo it.
Quick Hint: Look for easy-to-use controls. Simple buttons and screens can help.
5. What It's Made Of
How long a food processor lasts depends on what it's made of:
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Bowl: They can be plastic, glass, or metal. Plastic is lightweight, but opt for good plastic that doesn’t contain BPA for safety. Glass bowls are heavy, but they don’t stain, and metal ones last a long time.
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Blades: Metal blades stay sharp, don’t rust, and last.
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Base: A heavy base prevents it from shaking while it's in use.
Quick Hint: Choose a sturdy one to ensure it lasts.
6. How Easy It Is to Clean
Food processors can have numerous parts, so it’s beneficial if they’re easy to clean. Things to look for:
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Parts that can be put in the dishwasher: This makes cleaning faster and easier.
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Blades that come off: Makes washing easy and prevents cuts.
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Surfaces that are smooth: So food doesn't get stuck.
Quick Hint: Ones with fewer spots for food to get stuck and parts that come off are usually easier to take care of.
7. Safe to Use
Food processors feature sharp blades and powerful motors, making safety a top priority. Safety things include:
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Locking thing: Won’t start unless the lid is on right.
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Base that doesn’t slip: Keeps it steady while you’re using it.
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Shuts off if it gets too hot: Stops the motor if it’s overheating.
8. Loudness
Some processors can be loud, particularly when processing hard materials like nuts or ice.
Tip: If you have an open kitchen or want something quiet, consider processors designed to be quieter. Some fancy ones have features to reduce their noise.
9. Cord Storage and How Small It Is
A processor should keep your counter neat. Think about:
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Cord storage: Keeps the cord organized and out of the way when not in use.
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How small it is: Should fit on the counter or in a cabinet.
Tip: If it's small and the parts store well, it's easier to use and put away.
10. Brand and Promise
Picking a good brand means it'll likely last, be well-made, and have good support if you need it. Think about:
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What people are saying: See what others think.
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Promise: A one-year or two promise is good.
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Checking if you can obtain extra pieces: Ensures you can use it for a long time if something breaks.
Tip: Don't opt for something cheap; a good processor is worth the investment.
11. Other Things to Think About
New processors might have extra things that help:
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Set programs: For chopping, mixing, or smoothing.
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Smart features: Adjusts speed and power according to your activity.
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Place for parts: Keeps all the blades together.
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Juice or smoothie makers: Turns it into more than just a processor.
A good thing: The more things it can do, the fewer kitchen tools you might need.
12. Price vs. What You Get
Processors can be cheap or expensive. Think about:
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Simple ones: Good for basic cutting and smoothing.
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Middle ones: More parts, better build, and stronger motor.
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Fancy ones: Good motors, screens, set programs, and nice stuff.
Tip: Opt for one with the features you'll use the most.
In Conclusion
A processor is great for today's kitchens, saving time and making cooking faster. When choosing one, consider the motor, bowl size, parts, material, safety features, ease of cleaning, and additional capabilities.
By knowing how you cook, the size of your family, and the size of your kitchen, you can select a processor that suits your needs, lasts long, is helpful, and easy to use. Having a good processor makes cooking easier and helps you prepare delicious food without any trouble.
Whether you're cutting vegetables, mixing dough, or making sauces, a good processor is a valuable asset and makes cooking quicker and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can a processor do what a smoothie maker does?
Some do, but smoothie makers are better for drinks. Processors are good for cutting and mixing.
Q2. How can I prevent the processor from overheating?
Don't keep it running for too long. Take breaks when doing hard things, such as mixing dough or crushing nuts.
Q3. Can I put hot food in it?
Some can handle warm food, but check the directions first to avoid breaking it.
Q4. How often should I sharpen or change the blades?
Steel blades stay sharp for years, but they should be replaced if they become dull or break.
Q5. Can I wash the parts in the washer?
Most parts can be installed, but please refer to the book for details. Don't put the motor in water.