The holiday season is here, and as in years past, I’m sure many who buy a food processor intend to give it as a gift. Here are some tips to ensure that the model you choose is well received by the recipient.
1- Make sure you choose a suitable size machine. Generally speaking, most home cooks will need a large food processor (9 cups or more) AND a mini food processor (4 cups or less) if they want to use a food processor for all their processing needs. Some cooks, specifically those who never prepare food for more than two people, may benefit from a compact model (5 to 8 cups). The best option for most home cooks would be a full size food processor with a compatible mini bowl. This makes it so one machine can do the job of both, giving you the most versatility possible in one model.
2- Choose a finish or color that goes with the kitchen of the containers. Food processors are large and can be used to prepare almost any meal you can imagine. They tend to be left on the counter most of the time for these two reasons. Look around the kitchen where your gift will go. Are all the appliances stainless steel? Does the recipient have some brightly colored appliances? Is everything white?
3- Get a food processor with good power. Nobody wants a weak machine. Look for a model that has the bowl located directly above the motor (and not next to it). These models are called direct drive and the power transfer in them is far superior to that offered by a belt drive model. Direct drive models may cost a bit more, but they are certainly worth it. An underpowered food processor will cause headaches in the kitchen instead of helping.
4- Read reviews to find a reliable food processor. Do not give a gift that is sure to break after a short period of time. Read consumer reviews to find a machine that has proven to be reliable time and time again.
5- Consult the available accessories. Some food processors (especially the smaller models) come with few or no accessory options. Think about what the gift recipient likes to do and choose a model accordingly. The most popular accessory is a kneading blade, which allows you to easily make delicious homemade bread.
There are also some things you don’t need to look for when shopping for your gift. Don’t worry about security features when choosing your gift. All modern models follow strict safety regulations, such as ensuring that the blade stops moving when the lid is removed. Many manufacturers try to highlight these safety features to entice you to buy, when in reality they are standard on any machine you come across. Multiple speed settings are unnecessary; don’t look for them Don’t worry if the machine you choose comes with a companion guide and cookbook. Many excellent books are available for purchase separately and are better than any other bundled book.