A mini food processor.
Food processors are kitchen appliances that are used in place of graters, microplanes, and mandolins to slice, grate, and chop food before recooking it. Mini food processors are small versions that perform some, but not all, of the functions of a full-size food processor. They also store a smaller volume of food and require less counter space.
The volume of a food processor can range from 1 cup (237 milliliters) to 4 cups (948 milliliters), while full-size food processors average 8 cups (1.9 liters) or more. Manufacturers intend to use these mini versions as introductory level kitchen tools or for simple food preparation tasks. If you don’t have a food processor, buying a miniature version can reduce the effort required for labor-intensive food preparation tasks, like chopping and chopping, without spending too much money.
Mini food processors are useful for simple tasks like making breadcrumbs or crushing cookies.
In addition to being smaller, a food processor also has fewer features. While full-size food processors can slice vegetables, puree, and mix dough, few mini food processors have the volume capacity needed to make bread. Food slicing blades are rarely found in mini food processors.
Food preparation functions that a mini food processor is best suited for include chopping, mincing, and grating small amounts of vegetables and hard cheeses. Some models have a blade design that makes them useful for making breadcrumbs and crushing cookies. When these appliances have a pulse function, you can chop or grate food in short bursts with more precision. Models that only have an on/off button can easily become clogged and stuck, or can over-process food into puree.
You can buy mini food processors that are stand-alone appliances with their own power cord. Retailers also sell mini food processors that can be used with a blender. These do not have a power cord and an adapter must be used that allows the unit to fit into the blender’s power base. Both types are usually small enough to store in a kitchen cabinet or drawer.
A food processor is not a substitute for a blender with ice crusher or a food processor intended for preparing family-size meals. When shopping for a mini food processor, you should look for features that make the device more versatile. Slotted lids allow precise control of liquids during pureeing. Dishwasher-safe bowls and blades reduce cleanup time. A lid that fits over the unit’s processing bowl also allows you to store the contents in the refrigerator for short periods.