blend it right

After the recent confusion about which blender best suited my needs, I finally reached a decision today. I'm going to go with the dull but dependable blender (Philips HR 2011/70, to the left).

I think the more funky mini-blender (Philips HR 2870/60, to the right) would be a great addition to an established kitchen, which already has a primary blender. In summer, you could put it on the countertop instead of storing it away and make smoothies/iced coffee whenever frequently.


But for a new kitchen like mine, which is in the process of being set up, I think I need a tougher and more versatile blender that can do more than make smoothie. I want to be able to chop hard walnuts, blend tomatoes for soup, churn a litre of milk...all of which the basic, no-fuss single unit can handle.

Here are some points to consider when you're planning to buy a blender/mixie.

Top tips to choose the right blender for you:

• Capacity: Jar capacity varies from 500 ml to 3 litres. Do you cook in large quantities? How many people do you prepare food for? Also, do you have the space to store a larger blender?
• Wattage: Power typically varies from 250 watts to 750 watts amongst household blenders. Choose lower-wattage blenders if you're going to blend dressings and sauces; go for a higher-wattage model if you're keen to blend large quantities of food or crush ice.
• Material: Glass jars are sturdier but more expensive, while plastic jars are flimsier but more affordable. If it's a long-time purchase, try and go for glass. Also, is the footing (the base on which the jar rests) sturdy and well-balanced? If not, it could topple while in operation.
• Speed: Multiple speed settings will allow you to blend different ingredients best. A pulse feature is also helpful - it allows the chunky food items to stop and start and fall downwards to the blade for better impact. Less time, smoother blend!
• Cord: If you're planning to leave the blender on your countertop, look for one with a cord-storage feature. It'll look neat and be safer.
• Features: Opt for a model with numerous jars/multi-function units only if you plan to use the blender for food processing (whip cream, chop spices, etc.). If your main aim is to blend, stick with a simpler, no-frills model.
• Budget: If you're a nomad like me, and move every few years, stick with a basic model. If you're planning to use the same blender for a number of years, splurge and get one that works for you and your kitchen!

Happy blending!


Picture source: Philips

bewildered by blenders

Since my last place of residence was a hotel, my (now extremely limited) kitchen supplies are currently in storage at my grandmother's house in New Delhi. I plan to get a few things from there when I next make a trip (March 2013 in all likelihood), including a cherished waffle-maker, a great electric kettle, and a brand-new sushi set. 

As is obvious from the items above, the soon-to-be-mine kitchen needs to be set up pretty much from scratch! One of my key purchases is going to be a countertop blender, so I'm learning how to choose the right type.

I don't need it it to be too fancy; just something basic and reliable to make soups, smoothies and ice-blended coffee drinks. (There are no Starbucks or CBTL outlets in this town!) Perhaps I could use it to chop veggies as well...?

Philips is a great brand - my mum's bought their stuff for years and it's served her well. I've been going back and forth between these two Philips models:

The no-fuss single unit (on the left) has a 1.5 litre jar so I can use it even when I occasionally cook for guests. It has a five-star serrated blade and multiple blending speeds. It comes with a tough and efficient mill for grinding hard things like coffee beans. The whole unit requires little space for usage and storage.

The downside? There's a single jar for all functions. Plus it looks rather dull! (But it's pleasant enough to look at. Does boring really matter if it gets the job done?)

The mini-blender (on the right) has a 600 ml jar so it's primarily meant for a two-person household like mine. It also has a separate vegetable chopper and a smoothie beaker to carry. I love the fresh, funky colour - I've already bought some lime-green accented cutlery and assorted kitchen items, so it'll fit in perfectly.

The downside? It has only 2 speeds (do I really need more?) and a three-star blade. It will also require slightly more space for storage.

The prices of both are more or less the same so that's not a deciding factor.

Sadly, writing this down hasn't clarified my thoughts at all - I'm still as torn between the two blenders. I'm going to put off the decision for a few days and come back to it!

Picture source: Philips