How to Use a Blender and Common Uses

In the absence of product information that confirms a blender can crush ice or has extended food processing functions, you should assume that your blender can only blend, pureé, stir or mix liquids, thin batters and soft foods. 'Soft' meaning cooked foods or raw fruits and vegetables including onions, tomatoes, peppers, mushrooms and the like.

Blenders that can crush ice are designed with a combination of sufficient power and a stainless blade. While there are many models on the market with ice-crushing capability, some do not have this feature. If it does, you should see it listed in the product description. Models that have extended processing functions have generally much more power and an enhanced blade design. These are usually in the higher price range.

General Blender Use Tips:

• Pulse is often sufficient for many blending tasks.
• Avoid extended operation - running it longer than needed. Not all blenders are equipped with overload protection.
• Never operate the blender without the jar being securely placed on the unit.
• Regardless of how snug the lid is, you should hold it down while the blender is operating.
• Never operate the blender without the lid. Even the smallest amount of food can create quite a mess if the lid is not applied.
• To make cleaning easier between blending batches, put a small amount of warm water and dish detergent in the jar, and pulse to pre-clean immediately after using it. Rinse thoroughly.
• When all blending tasks are finished, disassemble the jar and blade assembly to clean it carefully.
• Always leave room for expansion - at least one third capacity and more for very thin or hot liquids.
• Place liquid ingredients in the jar first, followed by the rest of the ingredients.
• Cut vegetables and food items in small portions to enable foods to circulate around the blade.
• Blend hot liquids carefully, starting on lowest speed; leave lid cap off for steam to escape and fill the jar only half full, allowing more room for expansion. You may need to use a hot pad while holding down the lid during operation.
• Allow blender to come to a full stop before changing speed settings.
• Never immerse the main/base blender unit in water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.

What Not to Do With a Blender:

• Mash potatoes
• Whip egg whites
• Whip heavy cream
• Extract juice from fruits and vegetables
• Grind raw meats
• Knead or process dough
• Blend hard vegetables

Best Uses for Standard Jar Blenders

• Pureeing soft or cooked foods
• Creaming soup
• Smoothing gravy
• Blending eggs to scramble or make an omelette
• Making egg nog
• Blending cream pie fillings and custards
• Blending frozen concentrated juices or other beverages
• Blending pancake or waffle batter
• Blending non-ice smoothies and beverages; ice cream shakes
• Blending instant puddings
• Chopping nuts
• Making salad dressings, salsas, dips, mayonnaise
• Making bread, cracker or cookie crumbs
• Crushing ice and blending frozen beverages (if so designed)

Always consult your product manual if uncertain what your particular blender can and cannot do, as capabilities vary per model. Follow recommended care instructions for your blender.

Read More About Blenders & Small Appliances:

More About Blenders
Blender Jars - Glass vs Plastic
Extended Service Contracts - Pros & Cons
Canning & Home Preserving
Small Appliances

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