Choosing the best food processor
It’s very hard to name the best food processor, but it’s easy to narrow the list down to couple of machines. Surely people want different things from their food processor but when you are looking to buy a good processor, then you should be looking at the next things before you make your decision.
1. Because all food processors basically do the same tasks, you will want to find a powerful machine that can process food quickly and consistently.
2. Look for a good brand name. For example Cuisinart, KitchenAid or Braun are good.
3. Extra attachments. Many processors come with a stainless steel S-shaped chopping/mincing/pureeing blade, a plastic dough blade and slicer/grater discs. Any other attachments are good but not essential.
4. Safety features. Make sure that the bowl locks onto the base and that the top locks onto the bowl and that the processor will not start unless the processor is locked together securely.
5. Easy controls. Many models offer a wide array of speeds, but since processing takes place very fast, you really only need On/Off/Pulse.
6. Make sure your food processor has a wide feed tube like Braun food processor has. You can push larger pieces of food through.
More Things to think about when you buy food processor.
Size
Food processors can be put in 3 different size categories.
Mini- 4 cups or smaller: Good for people who like to do small projects such as chopping garlic or herbs. Don’t purchase a mini processor if you like doing pastry or bread dough. You can also do only very small amounts of sauce or toppings with mini processor.
Compact- 5 to 8 cups: Does the same tasks than full size processors but on a smaller scale. Ideal for people who don´t have big family and cook for only 1 or 2 people.
Full size- 9 cups or larger: Good option for anyone who cooks often and cooks for the whole family. You can make large amounts of sauce as well as pastry or bread dough with full size processor. Full size processor is also good for slicing, shredding and pureeing. I think Cuisinart 14 cup food processor is the best one.
I think that full size processor is the best option for most of us. I think it will serve you best in the long run.
Power
Power is one of the most important things of a good food processor. A well powered processor will give you easy and consistent results. An inadequately powered food processor will lead to uneven results.
To sum it up, a weak food processor could make more work for you instead of less. So make sure you purchase a powerful enough machine.
Only inconvenience when you have a powerful machine is that it will be heavier than more weak machines. But it will also be able to give you better results. The extra weight also adds to the stability of the processor, eliminating shaking when you use it.
Reliability
Customer reviews are good when you are trying to find out if the food processor is reliable or not. Another way to gauge the reliability of a specific processor is through the reputation of the manufacturer. I have found out that these manufacturers have the most reliable food processors: Braun, KitchenAid and Cuisinart. A good warranty is also always a plus.