Food Processors Guide
Powerful motor
A powerful motor ensures that the food processor can handle tougher ingredients and perform tasks efficiently. One product that stands out in this aspect is the Ninja Mega Kitchen System. It features a 1500-watt motor that can easily handle blending, pureeing, and chopping various ingredients. Another option is the Breville Sous Chef Food Processor. It boasts a powerful 1200-watt motor with a direct drive system that enables the processor to power through tough ingredients effortlessly. In the market, food processors can be segmented into three groups based on the motor power: High-end, Mid-range, and Compact processors. Some examples of high-end processors with powerful motors include the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor and the KitchenAid KFP1466ER 14-Cup Food Processor. For mid-range options, the Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor offers a capable 500-watt motor, while compact processors like KitchenAid KFC3516ER 3.5-Cup Food Chopper excel with their efficient 240-watt motor. With a focus on powerful motors, these products grant consumers greater versatility and performance in the kitchen.
Multiple speed settings
Having different speed options allows for greater control and precision when processing different types of ingredients. For example, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor offers a wide range of speeds, from a low setting for delicate tasks like slicing tomatoes, to a high speed for more demanding tasks like kneading dough. With its 720-watt motor and 14-cup capacity, this food processor is suitable for larger households or those who frequently prepare meals in bulk. Another option to consider is the Ninja NN310 Precision Processor, which features an 800-watt motor and three speed settings, catering to different preparation needs.
Large capacity
If you often find yourself cooking for large groups or batch cooking, a food processor with a large capacity will be your go-to kitchen appliance. A large-capacity food processor allows you to process larger amounts of ingredients in one go, saving you time and effort. Look for models like the Magimix 5200XL Premium Food Processor, which boasts a generous 3.6-liter capacity bowl, perfect for tackling larger recipes without the need to do multiple batches. Another option is the Breville BFP660SIL Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor, featuring a 12-cup bowl capacity that can handle large quantities of food. These food processors with high-capacity bowls are designed to efficiently handle bulk food preparation, making them ideal choices for anyone needing to process larger quantities of ingredients.
Compact size
A compact-sized food processor is ideal for those with limited counter space or for those who will be primarily using it for smaller batch cooking or simple food preparations. Despite their smaller footprint, compact food processors can still handle a variety of tasks with ease.
One example of a compact-sized food processor is the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor. With its 24-ounce capacity, this processor is perfect for everyday kitchen tasks such as chopping onions, making sauces, or grinding spices. It features a 250-watt motor and two processing modes - chop and grind. This compact-sized processor is designed to take up minimal kitchen space while still providing efficient performance.
Another option to consider is the Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor. While slightly larger than the Cuisinart Mini-Prep, it still falls under the compact category and can easily fit into most kitchen environments. This processor features a powerful 450-watt motor and a 10-cup bowl capacity. With multiple processing functions including slicing, shredding, chopping, and pureeing, this compact-sized food processor offers versatility in a smaller package.
Easy to assemble
The last thing you want is to spend precious time struggling to put together a cumbersome machine. Look for processors that come with clear and concise instructions, as well as parts that fit seamlessly together. The Cuisinart DLC-8SBCY Pro Custom 11-Cup Food Processor is a great option in this regard. With its stainless steel blades, this processor is not only easy to assemble but also sturdy and durable. Another excellent choice is the KitchenAid KFP0718CU 7-Cup Food Processor. This processor has a simple design and a one-click, twist-free assembly, ensuring quick setup and easy cleaning. Its speed and precision make food preparation a breeze.
Easy to clean
Look for models that have dishwasher-safe components, as this can save you time and effort during cleanup. One example of a food processor that prioritizes easy cleaning is the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef. Its bowl, lid, and blades are all dishwasher-safe, making it a breeze to clean up after use. Another option to consider is the KitchenAid KFP1466CU. This food processor also features dishwasher-safe components, including the work bowl and lid, which adds to its user-friendly cleaning experience.
Durable construction
Look for a processor made with high-quality materials that can withstand heavy-duty use. For example, the Breville BFP660SIL Sous Chef 12 is known for its sturdy construction, featuring a die-cast metal base and a strong stainless steel body. Another option is the KitchenAid KFP1133CU 11-Cup Food Processor, which boasts a durable and robust design with a sealed housing that prevents leaks and ensures long-lasting performance. Both of these processors are constructed to withstand tough tasks and frequent use in the kitchen, making them great choices for those seeking durability in their food processor.
Sharp blades
A sharp blade ensures efficient and uniform chopping, dicing, and slicing of various ingredients, making your food prep a breeze. Look for food processors with high-quality stainless steel blades that remain sharp over time and are resistant to rust and corrosion. One excellent example is the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor, which features a stainless steel chopping blade that effortlessly cuts through both soft and hard ingredients. Another standout option is the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor, which boasts an innovative six-wing precise slicing disc and a variable slicing control that allows you to customize the thickness of your slices. Choosing a food processor with sharp blades will ensure efficiency and precision in your food preparation tasks.
Versatile attachments
A high-quality food processor should come with a variety of attachments that allow you to perform a range of tasks, from chopping and pureeing to slicing and kneading. Some models even offer additional attachments for functions like grating, juicing, and whipping. For instance, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY is a top-rated food processor that includes a chopping/mixing blade, a dough blade, and multiple slicing/shredding discs, giving you the flexibility to tackle various culinary tasks. Another excellent option is the Breville BFP800XL, which not only offers standard attachments but also features a uniquely designed adjustable slicing disc and a reversible shredding blade for precise and efficient food preparation. These versatile machines enable you to unleash your culinary creativity with ease and efficiency.
Different slicing options
Some processors come with multiple slicing discs, allowing you to vary the thickness of your slices depending on your desired result. For example, the Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor offers a sliding disk with six thickness settings, giving you greater control over the thickness of your slices. Another option to consider is a processor that includes a julienne disc, such as the Breville Sous Chef Food Processor. This handy feature allows you to effortlessly create perfect julienne strips of vegetables for salads or stir-fries. Additionally, some processors also come with a reversible disc that features both a slicer and a shredder, like the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor, giving you even more versatility in the slicing options you have available.
Various chopping functions
Different chopping functions allow you to achieve a variety of results, from coarse to fine cuts, giving you more versatility in the kitchen. For example, the KitchenAid KFP0718CU food processor offers a range of slicing options, including a reversible thin slicing/shredding disc and a thick slicing disc. This allows you to easily customize the thickness of your vegetables or fruits. Another option is the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY, which comes with a stainless steel slicing disc, chopping/mixing blade, and dough blade. The different blades and attachments ensure that you can efficiently chop, slice, and mix a wide range of ingredients for your meals. By considering the various chopping functions and the specific attachments included with different food processors, you can choose the one that best meets your needs.
Grinding capabilities
This feature determines how well the appliance can efficiently and effectively grind various food ingredients. Look for processors with powerful motors and durable blades that can handle tough tasks like grinding nuts, spices, or coffee beans. One such example is the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef, which boasts an incredibly powerful 1200-watt motor and includes multiple blades specifically designed for grinding tasks. Another great option is the KitchenAid KFP0922WH ExactSlice, which features a high-performance 350-watt motor and a specially designed multipurpose blade that easily grinds ingredients to your desired consistency. These models are excellent choices if you are seeking a food processor with outstanding grinding capabilities.
Bowl lock mechanism
Bowl Lock Mechanism
One key feature to consider when choosing a food processor is the bowl lock mechanism. This mechanism ensures that the bowl is securely locked in place during usage, preventing any accidents or spills. Look for processors with a durable and easy-to-use bowl lock mechanism, such as the Breville Sous Chef Food Processor. This processor features a robust safety interlock system that securely locks the bowl and lid, providing added peace of mind during operation. Additionally, the Cuisinart Elemental 13 Cup Food Processor incorporates a Supreme Wide-Mouth Feed Tube, where the lock and release system makes it effortless to lock and unlock the bowl when placing and removing ingredients.
Safety features
Look for processors that have safety interlock systems, which prevent the machine from turning on unless all parts are properly attached and secured. For example, the Breville Sous Chef 16 Pro has a safety locking system that prevents the motor from turning on until the bowl, lid, and large food pusher are in the correct position. Another important safety feature to consider is a brake mechanism that automatically stops the machine once the lid is opened. The Cuisinart Custom 14 Cup boasts this feature, ensuring you can safely add ingredients or make adjustments without any accidents. Lastly, a reliable overload protection system such as the one found in the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor prevents the processor from overheating and getting damaged by automatically shutting off the machine if it detects excessive strain on the motor. These safety features are crucial for ensuring both your well-being and the longevity of your food processor.
Pulse function
This function is particularly useful for chopping vegetables or crushing ice as it runs the processor at short bursts of power. For example, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY food processor offers a pulse feature with an easy-to-use paddle control, allowing users to quickly achieve the desired consistency for their recipes. Another excellent option is the KitchenAid KFP1466ER, which includes an ExactSlice system with three settings, including high, low, and pulse, providing accurate and consistent results. Alternatively, for those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Hamilton Beach 70740 features a pulse function and a powerful 450-watt motor, making it a reliable choice for everyday tasks.
Blender function
The blender feature allows you to effortlessly blend ingredients to the desired consistency. Look for processors that have a powerful motor, such as the Vitamix 5200 Blender, which boasts a 2.2 horsepower motor and can blend even the toughest ingredients in seconds.
Another important aspect to consider is the capacity of the blender jar. The Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 comes with a 72-ounce blender pitcher, perfect for large batches of smoothies or soups. Additionally, pay attention to the blade design. Models like the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor feature a Wave-Action system that pulls ingredients down into the blades for optimal performance.
In terms of segmentation, there are professional-grade food processors like the KitchenAid KFP1642CA Pro Line Series. This model is designed for those who require heavy-duty blending capabilities and offers a range of features for the most demanding culinary tasks. On the other end of the spectrum, mini food processors like the Cuisinart DLC-2ABC Mini-Prep Plus Processor are compact and ideal for smaller batches and day-to-day tasks.
Citrus press attachment
This handy accessory allows you to easily juice citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, right in your food processor. It saves you time and effort compared to manually squeezing fruits.
Let me introduce you to two high-quality food processors that come with a citrus press attachment. The Breville Sous Chef BFP800XL is a top-tier option that boasts an impressive 1000-watt motor and a large feed chute to accommodate various sizes of fruits. It also has a 5.5-inch super-wide chute, which means you'll be able to juice whole fruits without the need to cut them into smaller pieces. Another excellent choice is the Cuisinart DLC-10SY Pro Classic 7-Cup Food Processor. It comes equipped with a citrus press attachment, allowing for easy citrus juicing. With its 600-watt motor, this food processor effectively handles multiple food prep tasks. Both products offer durable construction and excellent performance in the citrus juicing department.
Juicer attachment
A juicer attachment can greatly expand the versatility of your food processor, allowing you to easily make fresh and healthy juices at home. The Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef 16 Pro is a top choice in this category, as it comes with a large capacity juicer attachment that can extract juice from both soft and hard fruits and vegetables. With its extra-wide feed chute, you can easily process whole fruits and vegetables without the need for pre-cutting. Another great option is the Hamilton Beach 70730C 10-Cup Food Processor, which also includes a juicer attachment. This food processor boasts a powerful 450-watt motor and a large 10-cup capacity, making it ideal for large families or for those who like to entertain. The juicer attachment effortlessly extracts juice while retaining the nutrients from your favorite fruits and vegetables.
Disc attachement for shredding
This feature allows you to easily slice or shred vegetables, cheese, or other ingredients with precision and speed. One excellent product that offers a versatile shredder disc attachment is the Breville BFP660SIL Sous Chef 12 Cup Food Processor. This food processor comes with an adjustable slicing disc that allows you to choose from 24 thickness settings, ensuring you have complete control over your food preparation. Another option worth considering is the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor, which includes a stainless steel shredding disc for fast and efficient shredding of a wide variety of ingredients. Both of these food processors also offer additional features such as large capacity bowls, powerful motors, and multiple speed options for added versatility.
Whisk attachment
A whisk attachment is perfect for whipping up airy creams, meringues, and whipped desserts. It is designed with multiple whip wires that create maximum fluffiness and volume in your recipes. For those looking for a food processor with a reliable whisk attachment, the Cuisinart DLC-2009CHBMY Prep 9 9-Cup Food Processor is a solid choice. It comes with a stainless steel whisk attachment that can handle various whisking tasks. Another option is the KitchenAid KFP0718CU 7-Cup Food Processor. It features a multipurpose blade that includes a whisk attachment, making it versatile for a range of tasks including whisking. These food processors with whisk attachments offer the convenience and functionality needed to achieve perfect whipped results in your recipes.
Kneading attachment
This attachment is designed specifically for tasks such as kneading dough and making bread. It ensures that the dough is properly mixed and kneaded, resulting in a perfect texture every time.
One example of a food processor with an excellent kneading attachment is the Kenwood Chef Elite XL Stand Mixer. It comes with a patented "K-beater" attachment, which uses a strong "K" shaped dough hook to knead the dough. This ensures that all the ingredients are well mixed and kneaded evenly, providing a consistent result. Additionally, the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer is also a popular choice with a high-quality kneading attachment. It features a "PowerKnead Spiral Dough Hook" that replicates hand kneading with its unique spiral design, allowing it to knead the dough thoroughly and efficiently.
Emulsifying attachment
This attachment is ideal for emulsifying various ingredients together to create smooth sauces, dressings, and dips. Look for a food processor that comes with a powerful emulsifying attachment, such as the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor, which boasts a powerful 1200-watt motor and a dedicated emulsifying disc. Another excellent option is the KitchenAid 12-Cup Food Processor, which features an adjustable blade that can be used for emulsifying as well.
Some food processors may offer different types of emulsifying attachments, such as a whisk attachment or a blending jar that can be used for emulsification. For example, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor comes with a whisk attachment that is great for emulsifying ingredients like eggs for mayonnaise or whipped cream.
In terms of options available in the market, food processors can be categorized into various segments based on their motor power, capacity, and additional attachments. The 'high-end' segment includes products like the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor and the KitchenAid 12-Cup Food Processor, which offer powerful motors and a range of attachments, including an emulsifying attachment. In the 'mid-range' segment, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor is a popular choice due to its versatile attachments and reasonable pricing. Finally, the 'budget' segment offers options like the Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor, which still provides basic emulsifying capabilities at a more affordable price.
Dough blade
A dough blade is specifically designed to handle heavy dough mixing and kneading, providing excellent results without straining the machine's motor. Look for food processors that include a dough blade attachment to ensure efficient and effortless dough preparation. One excellent example is the Breville BFP800XL food processor, which features a dough blade specifically designed for tackling dough with ease. Another notable option is the KitchenAid KFP0718CU food processor, which also comes with a dough blade attachment for effortless dough mixing. By opting for a food processor with a dedicated dough blade, you can confidently prepare various types of dough with excellent consistency and texture.
Food pusher
The food pusher is a handy accessory that helps you safely and efficiently feed ingredients into the processor while keeping your hands at a safe distance from the blades. Look for a food pusher that is large enough to accommodate various sizes of ingredients, allowing you to easily push them through the chute without any hassle. One excellent option is the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef 16 Pro Food Processor which features a large food pusher that can easily handle whole fruits and vegetables. Additionally, it has multiple size feed tubes, including an extra-wide chute, to accommodate a range of ingredients, saving you time on prep work. Another great option is the Cuisinart FP-14DCN Elite Collection 2.0 14 Cup Food Processor which includes a retractable food pusher that offers easy control while processing different ingredients. With its wide opening, it allows you to effortlessly add larger ingredients through the chute, making your food preparation tasks quick and efficient.
Transparent bowl
Having a transparent bowl allows you to monitor the progress of your food without having to open the processor. This saves you time and ensures that your ingredients are being processed to the desired consistency. For example, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY is a highly recommended food processor with a 14-cup transparent bowl. This large capacity bowl allows you to process a variety of ingredients for large recipes. Another option is the Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Stack & Snap Food Processor. With its stack and snap assembly design and a transparent bowl, it provides ease of use and visibility while processing your ingredients. Both these models feature dishwasher-safe parts, making clean-up a breeze.
Lid with feed tube
This feature allows you to add ingredients while the processor is running, without the need to stop and remove the lid. A wider feed tube is beneficial as it accommodates larger ingredients and reduces the need for precutting. For example, the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor offers a large 5.5-inch super-wide feed chute, allowing you to process whole fruits and vegetables with ease. Additionally, it comes with a small 2.75-inch inner feed tube for smaller ingredients, ensuring thorough and consistent processing. Other options to consider with this feature include the Cuisinart Elite Collection 2.0 Food Processor and the Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Stack & Snap Food Processor, which both offer wide feed tubes for convenient ingredient feeding.
Stable non-slip base
A stable non-slip base ensures that the processor remains in place during operation, preventing any accidents or mishaps in the kitchen. Look for food processors that specifically mention a stable base in their product descriptions, ensuring they have features like suction cup feet or rubberized bases that provide a secure grip on the counter.
One example of a food processor with a stable non-slip base is the Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor. This powerful appliance features a durable base with sturdy suction cup feet that firmly hold the processor in place, even when processing heavy ingredients. Another option is the Breville Sous Chef 16 Pro Food Processor, which boasts a heavy-duty base with non-slip rubber feet for added stability. Both these processors make it easy to tackle tough slicing, chopping, and mixing tasks without any worries about the appliance slipping or moving on the counter.
Quiet operation
Many food processors can be quite noisy, creating a disruptive environment while preparing meals. Look for food processors that feature a quiet operation to ensure a peaceful cooking experience. One example is the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef Food Processor, which is designed with a heavy-duty induction motor that operates quietly while delivering powerful performance. Another option is the Ninja BN601 Professional Plus Kitchen System with Auto-iQ, which boasts a Quiet Kitchen System using a base that is engineered to reduce noise during use. These food processors provide efficient and silent operation, allowing you to enjoy a noise-free cooking experience.
Energy efficient
Many food processors on the market now come with advanced technology that maximizes energy efficiency. For example, the Breville BFP800XL Sous Chef 16 Pro is equipped with a 1200-watt induction motor that offers high performance while being energy efficient. Another option is the Hamilton Beach 70820 which has a powerful 500-watt motor that provides efficient processing performance with minimal power consumption. Both these food processors affirm their commitment to saving energy, allowing users to enjoy seamless food processing without worrying about high electricity bills.
Stylish design
A stylish design not only adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen but can also serve as a focal point that complements your overall aesthetic. Luckily, there are food processors in the market that prioritize design without compromising functionality. For those looking for a sleek and modern option, the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor is an excellent choice. With its brushed stainless steel exterior and compact design, it can seamlessly blend into any contemporary kitchen. Another option worth considering is the KitchenAid KFP0718CU 7-Cup Food Processor which features a sleek, cylindrical shape and comes in various vibrant color options to suit your personal style. These stylish food processors not only enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen but also offer reliable performance to tackle all your food processing needs.
Size of product
Different sizes are available on the market to cater to various needs. One popular option for small kitchens is the Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus 4-Cup Food Processor. It offers a compact size, perfect for daily food preparation without taking up too much countertop space. On the other hand, for larger families or those who frequently entertain, the Breville Sous Chef 16 Pro Food Processor is a versatile choice. With a 16-cup capacity, it can handle large quantities of ingredients for batch cooking or party-sized meals. These examples illustrate the range of size options available to suit individual preferences and cooking needs.
Price
Set yourself a budget to narrow down your options and ensure you make the most cost-effective choice. Food processors can range in price from as low as $50 to upwards of $500, offering various features and functionalities. In the lower price range, you can consider the Hamilton Beach 10-Cup Food Processor. Priced around $50, this processor offers a powerful 525-watt motor and a large feed chute for easy processing. If you have a slightly higher budget and seek a more versatile option, the Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor is worth considering. With a price of around $200, it features a spacious 14-cup work bowl, a wide-mouth feed tube, and a powerful 720-watt motor. Remember that price often reflects quality, but it's essential to assess your specific needs before deciding on a specific product.
Variety of brands
Some of the top brands in the market include Cuisinart, KitchenAid, and Breville. Each brand has its own pros and cons, so it's crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences.
Cuisinart is well-known for its reliable and efficient food processors. Their DLC-8SBCY model, for example, boasts a powerful motor and a large capacity, making it perfect for large-scale food processing. However, some users find that it can be quite noisy and bulky.
KitchenAid food processors are praised for their sleek design and versatility. The KFP1466CU model, for instance, offers a range of speed options, allowing you to precisely control the processing. On the downside, a few users have reported that the lids on KitchenAid food processors can be quite tight, making it challenging to remove them.
If you're looking for a high-end option, Breville is a popular choice. Their BFP800XL model is packed with features such as a large feed chute, a powerful motor, and multiple food processing options. However, some users find that it can be a bit complicated to operate due to its numerous functions and settings.
Other notable brands worth considering include Hamilton Beach, Ninja, and Black+Decker. In terms of budget-friendly options, Hamilton Beach offers food processors such as the 70725A model, which provides decent performance at an affordable price point. Ninja, on the other hand, is praised for its durability and versatility, with models like the NJ110GR offering convenient food processing capabilities. Lastly, Black+Decker provides a range of affordable food processors like their FP1600B model, perfect for those on a tight budget.