Are you tired of chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients by hand? Do you want to make cooking and meal prep easier and more efficient? If so, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the best food processors of 2021, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, we’ll help you find the perfect food processor for your needs.
What is a Food Processor?
A food processor is a kitchen appliance that can perform a variety of tasks, including chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It’s a versatile tool that can help you prepare a wide range of dishes, from soups and sauces to salads and desserts. Food processors typically consist of a bowl, blades, and discs that can be interchanged to perform different functions.
Types of Food Processors
There are several types of food processors available, including:
- Compact food processors: These are small and lightweight, making them perfect for small kitchens or apartments.
- Standard food processors: These are the most common type of food processor and are suitable for most cooking tasks.
- High-end food processors: These are large and powerful, with advanced features like multiple speed settings and specialized blades.
- Handheld food processors: These are small and portable, making them perfect for chopping ingredients on the go.
Top Food Processors of 2021
After researching and comparing various food processors, we’ve narrowed down our list to the top five models of 2021. Here’s a detailed review of each:
Breville BFP660XL Sous Chef 12
The Breville BFP660XL Sous Chef 12 is a high-end food processor that’s perfect for serious home cooks and professional chefs. It features a powerful 1000-watt motor, 12-cup capacity, and a variety of blades and discs for different tasks. The Sous Chef 12 also comes with a timer, pause function, and automatic shut-off, making it easy to use and safe.
- Pros: Powerful motor, large capacity, versatile blades and discs, easy to use and clean.
- Cons: Expensive, large and heavy.
Cuisinart DFP-14BCN 14-Cup Food Processor
The Cuisinart DFP-14BCN 14-Cup Food Processor is a popular and affordable model that’s perfect for home cooks. It features a 720-watt motor, 14-cup capacity, and a variety of blades and discs for different tasks. The DFP-14BCN also comes with a compact design, making it perfect for small kitchens.
- Pros: Affordable, compact design, easy to use and clean, versatile blades and discs.
- Cons: Less powerful motor, smaller capacity.
Hamilton Beach 70730N 10-Cup Food Processor
The Hamilton Beach 70730N 10-Cup Food Processor is a budget-friendly model that’s perfect for small kitchens and apartments. It features a 450-watt motor, 10-cup capacity, and a variety of blades and discs for different tasks. The 70730N also comes with a compact design and easy-to-use interface.
- Pros: Affordable, compact design, easy to use and clean, versatile blades and discs.
- Cons: Less powerful motor, smaller capacity.
Black+Decker FP1600B 8-Cup Food Processor
The Black+Decker FP1600B 8-Cup Food Processor is a compact and affordable model that’s perfect for small kitchens and apartments. It features a 350-watt motor, 8-cup capacity, and a variety of blades and discs for different tasks. The FP1600B also comes with a compact design and easy-to-use interface.
- Pros: Affordable, compact design, easy to use and clean, versatile blades and discs.
- Cons: Less powerful motor, smaller capacity.
Ninja Professional 1000-Watt Food Processor
The Ninja Professional 1000-Watt Food Processor is a high-end model that’s perfect for serious home cooks and professional chefs. It features a powerful 1000-watt motor, 9-cup capacity, and a variety of blades and discs for different tasks. The Ninja Professional also comes with a timer, pause function, and automatic shut-off, making it easy to use and safe.
- Pros: Powerful motor, versatile blades and discs, easy to use and clean, affordable.
- Cons: Smaller capacity, less durable construction.
What to Look for When Buying a Food Processor
When buying a food processor, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:
- Motor Power: A more powerful motor will allow you to process tougher ingredients and perform tasks more efficiently.
- Capacity: Consider how much food you need to process at one time. A larger capacity will allow you to process more ingredients, but may take up more space in your kitchen.
- Blades and Discs: Look for a food processor with a variety of blades and discs for different tasks, such as chopping, slicing, and shredding.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easy the food processor is to use and clean. Look for models with simple interfaces and dishwasher-safe parts.
- Price: Food processors can range in price from under $50 to over $500. Consider your budget and what features are most important to you.
Additional Features to Consider
Some food processors come with additional features that can enhance their performance and versatility. Here are a few things to consider:
- Timer: A timer can allow you to process ingredients for a set amount of time, making it easier to achieve consistent results.
- Pause Function: A pause function can allow you to stop the food processor mid-task, making it easier to add ingredients or scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Automatic Shut-Off: Automatic shut-off can help prevent accidents and make the food processor safer to use.
- Specialized Blades and Discs: Some food processors come with specialized blades and discs for tasks like kneading dough or making pasta.
Conclusion
Choosing the best food processor for your needs can be overwhelming, but by considering factors like motor power, capacity, and ease of use, you can find the perfect model for your kitchen. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, a food processor can help you prepare a wide range of dishes with ease and efficiency. We hope this article has helped you narrow down your options and find the best food processor for your needs.
| Food Processor | Motor Power | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BFP660XL Sous Chef 12 | 1000 watts | 12 cups | $250 |
| Cuisinart DFP-14BCN 14-Cup Food Processor | 720 watts | 14 cups | $150 |
| Hamilton Beach 70730N 10-Cup Food Processor | 450 watts | 10 cups | $50 |
| Black+Decker FP1600B 8-Cup Food Processor | 350 watts | 8 cups | $30 |
| Ninja Professional 1000-Watt Food Processor | 1000 watts | 9 cups | $100 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the retailer and location.
What are the key features to look for in a food processor?
When shopping for a food processor, there are several key features to look for. First, consider the size and capacity of the processor. If you plan on using it for large batches of food, look for a model with a larger bowl capacity. You should also consider the type of blades and discs included, as well as the power and speed of the motor. Additionally, think about the ease of use and cleaning, as well as any additional features such as a timer or pulse function.
Another important feature to consider is the material and construction of the processor. Look for a model made from durable, BPA-free materials that can withstand heavy use. You should also consider the noise level of the processor, as some models can be quite loud. Finally, think about the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer, in case you have any issues with the product.
How do I choose the right food processor for my needs?
To choose the right food processor for your needs, start by thinking about how you plan to use it. If you’re a casual cook, a basic model with a small bowl capacity may be sufficient. However, if you’re a serious home cook or professional chef, you may need a more advanced model with a larger bowl capacity and additional features. You should also consider your budget and the amount of space you have available in your kitchen.
Once you have a sense of your needs, start researching different models and reading reviews from other users. Look for models that have the features you need and are within your budget. You may also want to consider visiting a store to see the models in person and get a sense of their size and ease of use. Finally, be sure to read the warranty and customer support information carefully, to ensure that you’re protected in case anything goes wrong.
What is the difference between a food processor and a blender?
A food processor and a blender are both kitchen appliances used for preparing food, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features. A blender is designed to puree and liquefy foods, such as smoothies and soups, and typically has a tall, narrow pitcher and a single blade. A food processor, on the other hand, is designed to chop, slice, shred, and puree foods, and typically has a wider bowl and multiple blades and discs.
While there is some overlap between the two appliances, a food processor is generally more versatile and can handle a wider range of tasks. For example, a food processor can be used to chop nuts, slice vegetables, and shred cheese, in addition to pureeing foods. A blender, on the other hand, is typically limited to pureeing and liquefying foods. If you’re looking for an appliance that can handle a variety of tasks, a food processor may be the better choice.
Can I use a food processor to make dough?
Yes, many food processors come with a dough blade or attachment that allows you to mix and knead dough. This can be a convenient and time-saving way to make homemade bread, pizza dough, and other baked goods. When using a food processor to make dough, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct blade or attachment.
It’s also important to note that not all food processors are created equal when it comes to making dough. Some models may have a more powerful motor or specialized features that make them better suited for this task. If you plan on making dough frequently, look for a model that is specifically designed for this purpose and has good reviews from other users.
How do I clean and maintain my food processor?
Cleaning and maintaining your food processor is important to ensure that it continues to function properly and safely. After each use, be sure to wash the bowl, blades, and discs with soap and warm water. You can also use a dishwasher to clean these parts, if your model is dishwasher-safe.
In addition to regular cleaning, you should also periodically check and replace the blades and discs as needed. You should also lubricate the motor and other moving parts to keep them running smoothly. Finally, be sure to store your food processor in a dry, secure location to prevent damage and ensure that it is ready to use when you need it.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using a food processor?
One common mistake to avoid when using a food processor is overloading the bowl. This can cause the motor to overheat and the blades to become dull. Another mistake is not using the correct blade or disc for the task at hand. This can result in poor performance and potentially damage the appliance.
You should also avoid using your food processor to process hot foods, as this can cause the motor to overheat and the plastic parts to warp. Additionally, be careful when handling the blades and discs, as they can be sharp and cause injury. Finally, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for use to ensure that you are using your food processor safely and effectively.
What is the average lifespan of a food processor?
The average lifespan of a food processor can vary depending on the model, usage, and maintenance. On average, a well-maintained food processor can last for around 5-10 years. However, some models may last longer or shorter depending on the quality of the appliance and how well it is cared for.
To extend the lifespan of your food processor, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for use, and perform regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning and lubricating the motor. You should also avoid overloading the bowl and using the appliance for tasks that it is not designed for. By taking good care of your food processor, you can help ensure that it continues to function properly and safely for years to come.