What Is a Blender?
Blenders are 5- to 8-cup containers mounted on motorized bases with caps and leak-proof seals at their bases, with blade assemblies at the bottom of the containers, and container lids to prevent splashing. The assembled jar, filled with food, fits into the base. When the motor is engaged, the blades whirl at the selected speed with the highest intensity set to liquefy, crush, and grind. Some kitchen blenders are capable of crushing ice. Push-button speed controls are located on the front of the base. Countertop blenders have 3-16 speeds. Basic speeds to stir, mix, puree, and liquefy (and a pulse control) will handle most cooking needs. You may never need half of the speeds on a more-advanced model. Speeds are as efficient as the motor that powers them. Motors usually range from 300-700 watts; prices range from under $30 to over $140. Design options and blade style sometimes improve performance in less powerful motors. Job Description Hand blenders require that the operator maneuver the Cuisinart hand blender around the container. Some come with a lightweight mixing bowl, but they are intended to use with any kitchen bowl or pot. Light-duty stick hand blenders function like a three-speed stationary Cuisinart blender. Pushing a lightweight hand blender beyond its capabilities can burn out the motor. |  |
A high-efficiency immersion blender can handle most jobs that a countertop blender masters, just on a smaller scale. Oster hand blenders are maintenance-free, and consist of the grip that houses the motor and controls, and the shaft that houses the blade. These models transport well to work and out-of-town trips.
The gaskets, jars, blades, caps, and lids on a kitchen blender are expendable items, and replacement blender parts are available through manufacturers. Some hand blenders come with detachable blades and a mixing cup; replacement blades and cups are available. Some hand blenders also offer detachable whisks; one has an attachment for cleaning baby bottles.