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Be it chopping, blending, or making puree, a food processor is a lifesaver for every cook. This versatile tool reduces cooking time and effort and contributes to an amazing meal. Hummus, pesto, and nut butter are some of the recipes that can be easily prepared with a food processor, and if you are a new mother, a food processor is definitely a must-have.
That's not all. There are other uses for this kitchen tool as well. But wait, are you using your food processor correctly? Though it is very simple to operate this effortless appliance, there are certain rules and tips you must follow to get the optimum result, which also includes cleaning and taking care of your food processor.
Here are five rules you must know before plugging in your food processor:
Do Not Ignore The Pulse Button
By pressing the pulse button while using the processor, you will get more even results. It works great for roughly chopping the ingredients. Just lock the lid and press the pulse button once you are ready to start chopping. If your machine doesn’t have an automatic pulse feature, you can simply press the "on" button intermittently.
Stop Applying Too Much Pressure
The machine knows how to do its job; therefore, do not apply too much pressure while shredding or slicing the food. You can keep a uniform pressure on it to get even results, but do not overdo it. Also, remember to pack the ingredients snugly into the feed tube, then press gently with the pusher to get perfect slices.
Cut The Food Before Chopping It
Yes, a food processor is for your convenience, but throwing in whole, hard vegetables can ruin your dish along with the machine. To get the most out of it, make sure you pay attention to the size and texture of your ingredients. Before chopping, cut the meat and hard vegetables into one- or two-inch pieces, and if you are using soft meat or cheese, freeze it for half an hour to get better results.
Use The Right Size Processor Bowl
Just like other appliances, food processors also come in a variety of sizes; therefore, it is important to know which bowl fits your job perfectly. Add small batches to the processor for large projects. If you prepare liquid foods like soup, do not overfill the bowl, as this can lead to leakage.
Be Careful With The Blades
Once done with your work, remove the blades and attachments carefully. Rinse them with warm, soapy water, ensuring no dough or other ingredients stick to the components. If some food is stuck in the bowl, leave it in hot water for some time before scrubbing. Not handling the blades carefully can make them dull and useless over time.
By following these simple tips, you can make maximum use of your food processor and also make sure to keep your hands and kitchen utensils away from the machine while the blades are spinning. Stay safe and enjoy cooking.