How to Work a Blender

Although more than 90% of households report owning at least one personal or full-size blender, according to new AHAM research, some people may not know how to work a blender. These people may just be starting out cooking or have a new blender. Whatever the case, I am sure you are anxious to start using the blender, especially if it is a top-tier blender. Read on to find out more about choosing a blender and how to use one.

Choosing a Blender

So, if you know what a blender is used for but aren’t sure how to make what you desire, you will need to start by choosing the correct blender for you. To figure out which model to get, you will want to determine how powerful a motor you need by considering what you plan to make with your new blender. For example, if you plan to mix soft ingredients, you most likely will not require a powerful motor. However, if you plan to mix tough ingredients, like frozen ingredients, you will need a more powerful motor. If that is what you will mostly be using your for, check out what blenders can crush ice to ensure a nice, smooth consistency. It’s also a good idea to know how to repair blender motors so you fix minor problems without too much hassle. If you are looking for a multi-use blender, you should consider getting a high-powered blender with multiple speed settings. Just remember, no matter what type you have, you need to know how to properly clean your blender to ensure it runs smoothly when it comes time to use it.

How to Use a Blender

To make something in your blender, you will need your desired ingredients, including any soft, rigid, or frozen fruits, milk, and water. You will also need each part of your blender, consisting of the motor (hidden inside the blender base,) the blade assembly, the blender jars, and the blender lids.

1. You first have to plug the blender into the wall socket or connect the batteries. The power source should depend on the blender model. Most models plug into the wall using an AC adapter. However, portable blenders and immersion blenders could be wireless with batteries.
2. Next, you need to place the blade assembly within one of the blender cups. For a standard blender, you should find that you can screw the sharp blades into the bottom of the jar. The blades might connect to the top of the food container for personal or mini blenders.
3. Combine your ingredients within the blender jar. These ingredients should include any solid components you want, as well as a bit of liquid like warm water. Liquids will help the blender cut through the other ingredients.
4. Place the food container on the blender base with the blades on the bottom by the motor and the lid on top. There should be some indentations along the bottom of the blade assembly that fits into the connector.
5. If you have an appliance with multiple speeds, choose the proper setting for your desired result. Check your owner’s manual if you aren’t sure what each setting does. To determine the appropriate setting without the owner’s manual or without knowing the speed setting, you can always start on the lowest setting and gradually turn up the speed. It’s always a good idea to experiment with your blender speed settings.
6. Press the button to turn on the blender. If your blender only has a pulse function, you should keep your finger on the button for a short period. For portable blenders, you may need to push the blender jar into the base. Blenders operated this way have a pulse setting, though you can push the container in and turn to lock it in place. First, however, make sure that you read the manual to check how long the blender can run.
7. Blend until your ingredients are the desired texture to create your drink, soup, sauce, or baby food. You should pulse your dry ingredients first before adding the liquids. You want to use an immersion blender instead of a countertop model for hot soups unless the blender is designed for hot foods as well, like the Ninja Foodi Cold & Hot blender. Frozen drinks can be made in a standard blender because the blender is capable of crushing ice. For creamy soups and baby food, ensure that all the pieces are properly blended into the mixture.
8. Enjoy your food! You may want to unplug your blender if you do not plan on using it for a while or if you need the outlet. Also, make sure to rinse your blender out right away to avoid pieces of food getting stuck to the blade or blender jar. Your blender blades have to do a lot of work, and they can get dull after a while. Make sure you know how to sharpen blender blades, so they can keep doing the job they are supposed to.

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