The Basics: Food Processors

Food processors not only save an enormous amount of time for their users, but they also take over some of the most labor-intensive tasks in the kitchen, such as chopping, slicing, shredding and kneading, which were previously done mainly by hand. By automating the process, the food processor can accomplish these tasks in seconds and with greater precision.

Over the years, the original concept has been revamped and reinvented into larger and smaller versions of the machine; however the basic premise remains the same: foods are added to a work bowl, fitted with a metal blade, and processed into uniform pieces.

The biggest machines have powerful motors and large work bowl capacities ranging from 11 to 14 cups. (Note: An extra-large 20-cup model from Cuisinart is also available for home catering or commercial use.) The expanded capacity is useful for larger tasks such as chopping an entire bag of shelled walnuts, shredding a full head of cabbage, blending ingredients for a party-sized batch of guacamole or slicing whole fruits or vegetables through an expanded feed tube. Optional accessories convert the basic machines into stand mixers, blenders or mini-choppers. Some models feature specialty discs for cutting julienne vegetables or French fry potatoes.

Mid-size food processors are still considered "full-size." However, these units cost less, save counter space and do an admirable job with smaller quantities. Models in this category are typically less powerful than larger units but provide all the functionality of a full-size processor. Their work bowl capacities range from 7 to 10 cups, but some units boost their capacity with continuous feed chute assemblies that allow sliced or shredded produce to be dispensed directly into a separate bowl.

Compact food processors are in a different class altogether. These units are much smaller than full-sized models, making them ideal for smaller tasks such as processing a single onion, a handful of herbs, or a cup of mayonnaise. These units may be small enough to tuck away inside a cabinet or deep drawer, but still offer most of the functionality of a full-size processor--chopping, slicing, shredding, kneading bread dough, etc. Work bowl capacity ranges from 4 to 6 cups.

Whether large or small, food processors share a similar set of controls, which most often consists of the basic On, Off, and Pulse options, in either a push-button, switch or electronic touchpad panel. Some units offer more sophisticated, variable-speed controls. The single-button units offer the advantage of ease of use, while the variable-control models provide added versatility.

Food processors usually carry 1- or 2-year warranties, although high-end units usually carry more impressive ones. Cuisinart backs its models with a 3-year limited warranty on the entire unit and a 5-year warranty on the motor. KitchenAid offers a 1-year total replacement warranty on all its models.

How to Shop

A food processor should suit your needs and lifestyle. If you like to spend time in the kitchen, experiment with new recipes or frequently entertain guests, a larger machine is invaluable. If most of your cooking is in single-size portions, you may find that a compact unit satisfies your needs.

Basic tasks, such as chopping onions, making bread crumbs or pureeing vegetables can be done in almost any machine. For tough jobs like kneading dough for breads or pastas, a larger, more powerful unit is a wise investment. If you plan use the unit primarily for slicing and shredding, you should consider getting a model with a continuous feed chute, which lets you keep processing without having to stop and empty the work bowl.

Price is affected primarily by size, power and attachments. The larger units offer 600 to 800 watts of power and speed through strenuous tasks. In addition to price, factors to keep in mind are size, controls, attachments and optional accessories.

Size: Look for a machine with a work bowl that is large enough to suit your needs, while not exceeding your counter space or your budget. A 14-cup model can accommodate more than two pounds of chopped beef or enough dough for three loaves of bread. An 11-cup model can adequately handle 1-1/2 pounds of chopped beef or dough for two loaves of bread. A 7-cup model can accommodate 1-1/4 pounds of chopped beef or enough dough for two standard loaves of bread. Some units come with a second work bowl for additional versatility.

Controls: Options include push-button controls, an electronic touchpad or just a single toggle switch. Variable-speed units often have a dial or slide lever that allows you to change the speed setting to suit the task at hand. Those who have never used a processor before may want to start out with a machine that is as uncomplicated as possible. The two basic settings: "On" and "Pulse" are sufficient for accomplishing any task. Those who are more familiar with food processor techniques may appreciate the versatility of a variable-speed model. A slower start-up speed is a plus, for instance, when pureeing vegetables with a high liquid content, which tend to splash up and around the work bowl.

Attachments: Basic food processor equipment consists of a power base, a clear work bowl with feed chute, a cover and food pusher, a stainless-steel chopping blade, slicing and shredding discs, a plastic dough blade and a spatula. A big selling factor is the expanded feed tube, which has an oversize opening that is wide enough to accommodate whole apples or tomatoes for instance.

Optional accessories or "add-ons" are items that can be purchased individually to enhance the unit's performance. Typical add-ons include: extra work bowls and covers (for replacement or multiple batches), specialty discs, juicer attachments, whisk, mini-chopper or blender carafe attachments, and more.

No matter which unit you buy, be sure to read the instruction book and thoroughly familiarize yourself with the functions.