Blenders aren’t usually something that come to mind, say, in December. But suddenly in July they seem like such a good idea. From sweet, fruity smoothies to margaritas and Pina Coladas, the options and fun you can have seem endless. But before you get too excited about replicating those cool cocktails you had whilst on holiday, think realistically about what you’ll use a blender for. There are a ton of uses and they can be super handy, below are a few to check out!
A blender isn’t just a blender anymore and today you can find units that also serve as a food processor, meat grinder, and ice crusher. The Turbo Power Vita-Smooth Power Single-Speed blender is the type of machine that could keep you happily off solids for a very long time! That said, it’s a commitment at £319. But the key here is to consider how you’ll use your blender and whether you would find it handy to be able to mince and chop other foods.
Slightly less extreme but still an investment, is the Dualit range of blenders. With 500 watts of power, 1.5 litre capacity and 5 speed settings, it’s a powerful blender that will take care of crushing ice, mincing fruit and whipping up something frothy. Also at the £80-100 price point. Kitchenaid’s Ultra Power blender has 10 speeds and the Krups Expert has an 1100 watt motor and can be easily popped into the dishwasher to be cleaned.
There are a number of brands and styles of blenders at the £40-70 range and really all you sacrifice are the number of speeds (2 and 3 versus 5) and motor power (usually around 700 watts). What does this mean? No blending of large chunks of ice and less variety in speed - so your blended drinks may not be as finely calibrated.
The key with blenders, as with all small appliances in your kitchen, is to get the highest quality appliance that’s weighted against variables such as usage frequency and type of food that you prepare. Make a list and then look at your budget. It’s simple! And go ahead and then make yourself a pina colada - it will help ease you back to reality after a warm holiday abroad.
