A blender is an electrical kitchen appliance that is used to mix ingredients or purée food. They can chop food and blend liquids and solids together. The blender's container can be made of glass, plastic or stainless steel. In general, it has graduated markings for measuring purposes. There is also a lid at the top of the container to prevent spillage during operation. The blade is located at the bottom and is sometimes removable. The container has a base that includes the motor that is running the blade assembly. Most blenders offer various numbers of speeds.
Choosing the right one for you
At the point of sale, look out and make sure you pick the container that suits best your cooking needs. Blenders which are made from plastic are the most affordable and don't break easily. It is also not influenced to the changes in food temperatures. The only con is that if you were to wash it using a dishwasher, it will have scratch marks over time.
Apart from that, glass containers, which are slightly more expensive, is sensitive to the changes in food temperatures. They are unlikely to have scratch marks if you wash using a dishwasher.
As for stainless steel blenders, they are more suitable to blend frozen drinks. The only disadvantage is that you're not able to see what it inside the container because the container is not transparent. Therefore, in order to check on the mix the lid must be open regularly.
Basic tips on using blenders
After pouring all the ingredients in the container, put the lid firmly. Place your hand on the container lid and turn on the blender. Your hand should be on the lid on all times while the motor is running.
Occasionally you might require adding some liquid for the blender to operate more smoothly. The purpose of the liquid is to help move the solids and bring it in contact with the blade as some of the motor is not high powered. If you are blending ice cubes, add at least one cup full of liquid.
Always make sure the blender is turned off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before removing the lid.
If you're preparing carbonated drinks, mix all the ingredients but the carbonated one. Pour the blended mix in a separate glass and only then add in the carbonated ingredient.
In order to make cold recipes, try chilling the container in the freezer. This only applies to glass and stainless steel containers. If you are dealing with a hot liquid, leave the feeder cap open so the hot air can be released. Ensure the speed is at its lowest.
You can make quick and easy recipes, for example, by blending grounded poppy seeds, fresh coconut, dry milk and frozen fruit juices to get those yummy instant pudding or shakes.
Exercise caution
Some of the blenders must be placed securely in the base or it won't start.
Always remember that while operating a blender never remove the lid while the motor is running!