A food processor is a real-time saver in your kitchen. Depending on what model you have, you can chop, dice, shred and even prepare pastry dough in a short amount of time. Since food processors have extremely sharp blades and cutting surfaces, never allow an unsupervised child to use a food processor.
Size
Food processors come in a variety of sizes, ranging from a capacity of only 2 tbsp. on up to 14 cups. The smaller sizes are ideal for chopping or grinding small amounts of spices, and the larger ones are suitable for preparing pastries and dough, or for chopping vegetables in record time.
Choose a size that will suit your kitchen and needs. A medium size may be best if you have limited counter space, or only prepare small meals. However, if you like to cook large amounts or have more chopping options, choose a model that will allow you to change the blade and speed sizes according to the recipe.
Parts and Accessories
All food processors have three basic components: the work bowl, feeding tube and blade attachment. Fancier models come with more attachments, which can shred foods from carrots and cabbage for coleslaw, to cheese for a pizza. Other blades quickly blend ingredients, which is ideal for making pastry, bread dough or even cookie dough. Small models can chop nuts in a matter of seconds.
Never force a piece of food down the feed tube if it is too big to easily fit inside. Instead, make sure all your ingredients are more or less the same size, and can easily fit inside the tube. Always keep your fingers clear of the spinning blades--never put them down the feed tube. Make sure the blades have stopped spinning entirely before removing the top.
Food Processor Care
Keep your food processor in optimum condition by carefully cleaning out the pieces and the blades with hot, soapy water after each use. The attachment blades, work bowl and feeding tube can be washed in the dishwasher if you prefer. Cleaning your food processor well discourages bacterial growth and will keep it looking newer for longer. Do not allow small particles of food to become lodged in the work bowl or attachments, as it can interfere with safe functioning. Take good care of your food processor and it will become one of your most often used tools in the kitchen.
Tags: food processor, work bowl, your food, your food processor, bowl feeding, bowl feeding tube, down feed
